Support groups distribute record numbers of food parcels

Volunteers praised for their efforts in helping vulnerable residents.

A co-ordinated effort to support Erdington’s elderly and vulnerable during the coronavirus pandemic saw food parcels delivered to 259 homes in one day.

Witton Lodge Community Association, The Active Wellbeing Society and Erdington Community Response worked in partnership with the support of 19 volunteers, packing and distributing the huge tally of parcels last Friday.

Flourishing Community Services Manager at Witton Lodge, Rob Netherway, praised the efforts of all those involved

“This was a huge increase from our usual food delivery, which is normally around 75 parcels each Friday, meaning we were able to reach and help even more people,” he said.

“This was an excellent example of upscaling the support we can provide. We continue to work with our local partners to increase the distribution of food with more volunteers being recruited to help pack the parcels.

“To get such a large number of parcels ready and sent out underlines the shared commitment to making sure we reach the most vulnerable members of our community with the support they need.

“Volunteers are crucial to all of the support we are providing to our communities, so a big thank you to everyone who is giving their time to help vulnerable people stay well.”

If you would like to donate food or supplies to help elderly and vulnerable residents you can take them to Witton Lodge Community Association at Perry Common Community Hall, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Perry Common B23 5JD, Monday to Friday, between 11am and 3pm.