Appeal to help Pendle group feed the vulnerable during lockdown

Pendle Food For All, based at the Zone building in Leeds Road, Nelson, is manned by selfless volunteers who are determined not to let the lockdown put any of their regular members at risk of going hungry.

Lynne Mitchell, who helps run the group, said: "We gather waste food that is either surplus or near end of date from supermarkets and other organisations, which we then distribute for a small membership fee.

"Members pay £3 every week whichh gives them some dignity and we hope doesn't deter people from asking for help who might otherwise be reluctant if it was given out for free. Members build up points and most weeks works out to a basket full of food worth around £20.

"However, our group is not just about giving out food - it's also an opportunity for people to come in to our building, meet other people and socialise. Most are elderly or vulnerable and so coming in was a great way for them to socialise.

"Obviously they are just the group that need to be very careful during lockdown so we have decided to do deliveries so, but also have a chat, at a safe distance, so they don't feel too isolated."

The club, which has around 500 members across Pendle, is now making deliveries every Thursday but needs help in terms of donations.

They are desperately in need of tins, long life milk, non-perishable items and also toiletries.

Neil Shaw, one of the volunteers at the club who is now doing deliveries, said: "We've been very busy. I delivered 70 parcels last week. We drop the parcel off and stop to have a quick chat at a safe distance. We are probably the first person they see all week, many cannot leave the house at all, and so are very grateful to see us."

To support Pendle Food For All visit https://localgiving.org/charity/pendle-food-for-all/