Fareham churches support more than 30 families with food packages during lockdown

A team of seven volunteers from Holy Trinity Church, in West Street, and St Columba Church, in Hillson Drive, are delivering meals to children on behalf of St Columba Church of England Primary, in Tewkesbury Avenue.

Daily packed lunches and learning packs are being sent to pupils who qualify for free school meals, with the help beginning as soon as the national lockdown began on Monday, March 23.

Almost 50 children from 33 families are receiving regular help, with some families receiving additional support with a weekly food package.

Headteacher Tracey Marsh said: ‘We have been absolutely overwhelmed by the support of the local church through this difficult time. We are so incredibly grateful and astounded by their eagerness to support our school community.’

The church has also been recording uplifting video messages for families, as well as saying prayers for children via the school's Facebook page and website.7

The Rev Sally Davenport, team rector of Holy Trinity and St Columba, Fareham, said the nationwide lockdown had been an ‘eye opener’ in the way it revealed extensive need across the area.

She said: ‘It has been quite an eye-opener going to some people’s homes.

‘A lot of people are living in very small flats and there is not much outside space.

‘We are worried about how people are coping, with their general wellbeing and their mental health.

‘Not everyone has everything they need to hand, and now a lot of people are quite frightened to go outside.

‘We are delighted to be able to lend practical support to our school families. It has strengthened our friendships within the community too.

‘People are very keen to help and people on the receiving end are very grateful.’

Earlier in the month, the Fareham and Gosport Basics Bank had to close due to the coronavirus epidemic, before charity Acts of Kindness and the council stepped in to make sure its food and supply chains continue to support vulnerable people.

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