COVID-19 has caused a huge impact on vulnerable residents who are having to self-isolate due to the outbreak. Between families that rely on food banks and groups that can’t get access to supplies during the lockdown measures, there was a significant need for a community response.

Working in partnership with The Active Wellbeing Society to source food and supplies and Wrekin Housing Group, (the group’s newly appointed repairs partner) to transport the products, The Pioneer Group have then been able to distribute the parcels to identified recipients.

This week saw the launch of the scheme with the first of many shipments being collected and distributed. Each parcel contains a nutritious balance of both dry and fresh food including fruit, vegetables, tinned goods, cereal and milk. The first allocation saw 60 food parcels made up and delivered to vulnerable households that include over 60s, people with underlying issues, or those that are self-isolating without family members nearby.

The food parcel service supplements the work carried out by two organisations; Stockland Green Methodist Church and Spitfire Services. The Methodist Church has been working with local volunteers to distribute food to vulnerable families in Slade road surrounding areas. Whereas the food bank in Castle Vale has seen a huge uptake recently, now helping over 100 families a week, and has recently received a donation of £5,000 from The Pioneer Group in order to continue supporting local residents.

Ifor Jones, the Head of Partnerships at The Pioneer Group, said: “I am incredibly proud of all the hard work carried out by our teams, partners and volunteers in these challenging times. Working together to look after those around us has united us as a strong and vibrant community.

“We have never been busier, especially those on the front line. The efforts shown to keep the vulnerable and elderly safe in our communities demonstrates the importance of partnerships.”