Hope Centre food bank busy producing Christmas hampers for those in need

The Hope Centre food bank in Cramlington is busier than ever as they create a Christmas hamper to give to each of their clients.

The organisation is one of a network of food banks associated with the Trussell Trust who work to stop UK hunger and poverty and provide emergency food and support.

Joyce Docherty, manager of The Hope Centre said: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and support that the people of Cramlington have given us. We have a team of thirty volunteers who are currently working together to create the hampers.”

However there are still ways to offer help. The centre is looking to recruit a team of volunteer drivers to deliver the food parcels and as well as the regular food offerings they would welcome festive treats such as Christmas cakes and puddings, mince pies, chocolates, gift packs of toiletries and crackers.

There are various drop-off points in town including, Dunelm Mills, Newcastle Building Society, Sainsburys, Asda and Northburn Community Centre.

Donations can also be made directly to The Hope Centre which is open Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm.

Support has also been given from community groups such as Women Who Can Run who are donating toiletries and this Sunday sees a sponsored walk by a group from Project:U in Blyth to the Hope Centre in Cramlington.

The food bank accepts referrals from a number of organisations such as Social Services, Citizens advice, the Job Centre, NETS, doctors, health visitors, schools and Crisis, so if you are in need of support please approach one of these organisations.

The Hope Centre will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, January 1st and 2nd.

Pictured: Mandy Thwaite, Glenys Buxton and Abby Hanson preparing a hamper and volunteers unload a delivery of donations.