I’m launching a ‘12 crates of Christmas’ to help people who could go hungry
A kind-hearted landlady has vowed to give hope to families who are facing an ever increasing strain on finances over the festive period.
Sinia Jazwi has launched a "12 crates of Christmas" appeal at her pub, named Sinia's, in South Shields, to help people who could otherwise go hungry.
Generous locals have already started dropping off food and other essential items that will be passed on to those who are struggling.
Sinia has issued a list of 12 items, including UHT milk, cans of peas, biscuits and pasta to give people ideas of what to donate, along with other essentials such as soap, deodorant, shampoo or even pet food.
Hampers will then be made up and handed out to those who need them.
They can be collected anonymously or Sinia and members of her staff will meet recipients in a public place if they prefer.
She will also be providing and handing out turkey dips to those who otherwise wouldn't have hot food on Christmas Day.
Sinia said: "This can be the hardest time of year, people are struggling, including those who have never been in this position before.
"We want to give the 12 crates of Christmas hamper contents to each person who asks for help - at least.
"People with two wages coming in are now finding it hard to feed their families, the cost of living is astronomical.
"People are having to chose whether to put the heating on or buy extra clothing to keep warm at home.
"My pub is in the town centre and people actually sleep outside, they live on the pavement, that is their home, they are my neighbours but they don't have a building.
"People are too proud to ask for help and I understand that but if people let me know they are in need I will come and meet you, you don't have to come into the pub.
"It's the same on Christmas Day, I will be making turkey dips which people can come inside the pub for but we will also be out and about handing them out.
"I want people to know that it's ok to reach out, people are embarrassed but they should just think of this help as a Christmas gift, not charity."
Sinia's is open seven days per week and people can just pop in to request help if they need it or can send a private message on the bar's Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/thecyprus.