Residents at Handyside Court in Derby have joined forces with Clear Mind charity to support local families facing financial difficulties.
Clear Mind operates at the on-site café, together with the residents at Housing 21’s Extra Care scheme, they created five hampers containing essential food and toiletry items to help families in the local community.
Ruth is a resident at the scheme, she said: “The reason why me and the residents decided to get on board with this idea was because it was to help the families in need. I am very fortunate and I am able to donate and feel warm inside thinking I’ve helped the families in the local community.”
The idea for the food bank came from Handyside Court’s Resident Experience Coordinator, who recognised the growing financial pressures facing families through volunteering at her son’s school.
Kate Shillcock said: “The reason we decided to start this food bank was because I also volunteer at my son’s school and realised just how many local families are struggling financially and are unsure how they are going to get by.
“I thought that if we could do something to make life just a little bit easier for these families, then we should. That’s where the idea for the food bank started.
“Working alongside Clear Mind charity, we were able to put together food and toiletry hampers to support local families in need. It’s been incredibly rewarding knowing that, in a small way, we can help make a difference within our community.”
The initiative highlights the positive role that communities can play in supporting their local areas, bringing residents and community partners together to help those who need it most.