Project: U Fitness supports Hope Centre Food Bank

At Project:U Fitness centre in Blyth a group of members were talking about how food banks support the local community, especially at this time of year.

Realising that action speaks louder than words, the centre owner Andrew Sims decided to ask clients to help out by donating  toiletries and groceries to a food bank.

Fast forward four weeks and the haul was enormous! So much generosity and kindness from clients, some of whom have very little themselves. The date was set to transfer the donations to the Hope Centre in Cramlington,  but how to get it all there?

Cue another bright idea…”Let’s walk it there in a human food chain!”

Calling on the help of the members again,  shopping bags and backpacks were packed and a group set off on a five mile walk in the cold, the wind and the rain. But the poor weather didn’t dampen their spirits and they laughed, sang and skipped their way to Cramlington.

A warm greeting from the volunteers at the Hope Centre welcomed the walkers as well as hot coffee, mince pies and massive smiles. The walkers were given  a tour and then unpacked their six trolley loads of food and toiletries.

The Mayor of Cramlington Loraine De Simone also welcomed the group along with the centre manager Joyce Docherty.

Andrew said “This was a small contribution in the grand scheme of things, but we left with a sense of pride and a warm feeling inside knowing that our efforts helped a few local families to have a better Christmas this year.”

Donations can be made at the  Hope Centre, Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm but it be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, January 1st and 2nd.

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.

 Pictured: The walkers who set off from Project:U to the Hope Centre.