50 Christmas Hampers On Their Way To Good Homes Via Foodbank Donation

Mark Collins from Priory Rotary’s Satellite Club made a delivery of items to make up 50 Christmas hampers for the Lynn Foodbank on Friday. Despite the general increase in food prices, he was able to pick up some good bargains taking advantage of money-off vouchers and special deals - and this year was able to include a large tin of potatoes as an extra item. For £12 per head each pack comprised: Tinned cooked chicken breast, tinned potatoes, tinned carrots, tinned peas, sage & onion stuffing, gravy granules, Christmas pudding, a carton of custard, 6 x mince pies, a family pack of biscuits and a Cadbury's selection pack of chocolate bars. Mark had the additional challenge of squeezing everything into his small car – even the front passenger seat was piled high!

Helen Gilbert of the Foodbank said “we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Priory Rotary Club for their incredibly generous donation of Christmas food items. Your kindness will make a real difference to local families facing hardship this festive season. These special items will be distributed alongside our regular emergency food parcels, helping to bring a little extra cheer and comfort to those in need. This support is invaluable and truly appreciated – thank you for standing with our community.”

Next year the Foodbank moves from the South Quay to the former St. James Medical Practice in the Walks. This will become a hub which will include other support services including Citizens Advice and Debt Counselling. Rather than hand out leaflets to Foodbank customers and point them in the direction of help, as they do now, Helen's team will be able to walk them over to a desk for on-the-spot advice. There will also be somewhere for clients to sit and have a chat over a cup of tea or coffee. The new facility should be ready by Easter and Helen said she'd be pleased to welcome any of us who'd like to look round.