South Shields food bank and local businesses join forces to help 100 in-need families enjoy Christmas dinner

The South-Shields-based Hospitality and Hope organisation, working with family run butcher Dicksons and the King Street Fresh ‘N’ Fruity greengrocers, has put together dozens of food hampers for a number of struggling families in the community.

As part of the December drive, 100 families will each receive vouchers which they can use to buy the ingredients for their Christmas day meal.

In addition, they will also receive a selection of sweet treats to enjoy over the festive season.

The Hampden Street food bank has been posting generous donations towards its Christmas campaigns via its social media channels throughout the month.

Commenting on the festive initiative, Hospitality and Hope’s CEO, Brian Thomas, said: “For many of us Christmas time brings joy and the opportunity to celebrate with a special meal.

"Unfortunately, for some in our community, it can also bring a sense of dismay as they face the financial challenges that the past year has brought them.

“Working alongside our partners in local schools and community support agencies we are reaching out to provide some festive cheer to those families who need it most.”

Hospitality and Hope will shut its doors for the festive break at 12pm on Christmas Eve. The centre will then reopen on Tuesday, December 29, for emergency parcel collections and will return to its normal working hours on Monday, January 4.

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