Mayor thanks local community groups for delivering food parcels to the vulnerable

October 9, 2020

From April through to July local community groups partnered with the council to deliver the Department for Communities (DfC) food parcels to the vulnerable in their communities.

Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Nicholas Trimble held socially distant receptions to acknowledge the valuable support these groups gave to communities across the Lisburn Castlereagh area.

Speaking about the partnership working, the Mayor said: “I felt it was important to thank local groups who partnered with the council and DfC on the food parcel scheme.  The receptions were organised on a DEA basis with restricted numbers in attendance to adhere to government guidance.  However, the small number present did not detract from the important work these groups willingly undertook to ensure those who needed food had access to it during the pandemic.

“I would like to thank everyone involved across the Lisburn Castlereagh area for safely delivering DfC food parcels where they were needed most.  The co-ordination between all parties was seamless within a short period, with regular communication taking place to ensure the quantities needed were available. Some groups had more volunteers available than others but each group went above and beyond to support their community.  There truly is unity in the Lisburn Castlereagh community.”

To date receptions have been held for groups across the areas of Lisburn, Downshire, Killultagh and Castlereagh.

Mayor Trimble added: “Delivering food parcels was not the only support these groups provided.  Across the council area such volunteers also delivered prescriptions, activities and toys for children, Easter treats, school packs, art activities, gardening packs.  Some also offered telephone support and a befriending service.  Such versatility helped the vulnerable in the community stay safe in their homes and not feel lonely.”