Under UK lockdown restrictions, shopping for food was one of the very few reasons people were allowed to leave their homes.
But what about the large numbers of our community shielding due to illness or old age?
Head of Sky Blues in the Community Dave Busst, along with a number of his furloughed team have been volunteering their time to help deliver food parcels to shielded residents and families across Coventry throughout the pandemic.
As the middle of August 2020 approaches, our Sky Blues in the Community team have now reached 20 weeks of community social action - with an amazing 3000+ food parcels delivered to over 300 families across Coventry.
Before the pandemic, The Henley Grub Hub had 80 families signed up to their £4 a week food service, now they’ve seen the demand double.
Diane from the Moat House Community Trust said, “Many people have told us that they don’t want charity, they don’t want something for nothing, they like the fact that they’re contributing and don’t want to be stigmatised by handouts.
We’re happy to be working with Fare Share, Trussell Trust and our local community centres and food banks, such as Henley Grub Hub, Stoke Heath Grub Hub, Families for all hub Foleshill and Foleshill Food Bank.
Every week the Grub Hubs prepare the parcels for delivery, sharing items equally, giving every family a fair share. Parcels contain essential supplies including pasta, cereal, fruit and vegetables.
Head of Community, Dave Busst said “It’s a great feeling delivering these packages, knowing what food our residents are receiving and essential items they’ll need, especially for those families that can’t get out during these difficult times”.
One of our lovely Foleshill residents commented on the help she has been receiving during the pandemic:
“I just wanted to say a big thank you for my food parcel, I really appreciated everything you put together for me and my family and lots of thought and care had gone into it. I loved the little note and at such worrying time it made me smile and really did brighten my day.
“Also, a big thank you to the man who delivers, he always gives me a big wave. You are all doing an amazing job and look forward to giving something back soon when things get better, love and appreciation.”