Running challenge raises hundreds for Portchester food pantry to give Christmas presents to families in need

Peter Sanderson and Warren Chebby, along with five friends, took on the challenge of running 5km every day in November to make sure local families could access food and essential items.

Their epic feat raised more than £1,500 to support the food pantry at Portchester Methodist Church, which is supporting people who need food, toiletries, nappies and more.

Peter, from Portchester, said: ‘Raising this amount for the local food pantry makes me feel so proud of the local community in this area.

‘It really shows that even during unprecedented times we still have that great British spirit where everyone comes together to do good for the community.

‘Knowing that local families in need will not go hungry over Christmas is an amazing feeling to have.’

The food pantry is open to anyone, with no need for referral, and has been providing chilled food, tinned goods and other items throughout the pandemic.

Lucy-Anne Barnett, community outreach co-ordinator who runs the food pantry, said: ‘With the situation of Covid, traditional stereotypes are going out of the window. I’m quite passionate about dispelling these stereotypes and trying to make people aware that it could be anyone.’

Lucy-Anne had an idea to give some gifts out over Christmas to families in need of some extra help, and the donation from the 5km challenge has helped create more than 40 parcels of presents and Christmas food.

SEE ALSO: Portchester couple put up hundreds of Christmas lights for dazzling display to help food bank

She added: ‘Their donation has been game-changing really. Their donation has meant we’re able to go and buy some presents for children and tailor them to their ages, it’s just been amazing.’

Warren, who was overwhelmed to raise more than the target, said: ‘It has been an amazing experience being part of this challenge. It was tough but people around us helped us a lot.

‘It's nice to be nice and kind to others, we are going through some tough moments and it's good to know we think about others. The world needs love and we can all make a difference, however small or big.’

Visit gf.me/u/y6m67b to donate, or drop items off to Portchester Methodist Church between 10am to midday on weekdays or leave it in the box outside.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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