Burgess Hill organisations support the community with food supplies for people in need

The food parcels were delivered to 70 families, nominated by local agencies, and the YMCA Downslink Group, who support young people in Burgess Hill.

Councillor Robert Eggleston, leader of Burgess Hill Town Council, said: “The town council’s Covid-19 food delivery project has been a big community effort helping us to deliver food to the most vulnerable single people and families in the town.

“As a town council we want to ensure that no cupboard is empty and the summer hamper project, which builds on our Christmas scheme, is an important step in fulfilling that ambition.

“As ever, I am very thankful to the hard work of our officers and the support we receive from everyone in the community.”

Burgess Hill District Lions Club said they are ‘pleased to be working as part of the team on the food delivery project’.

Chris Thomas-Atkin, a member of the club, said: “At a very early stage of the ongoing crisis the Lions Club recognised that the pandemic called for an unprecedented response.

“We were keen to donate money to the Town’s Emergency Fund, and to be part of the emergency committee in helping support our local communities.
“Projects such as these, along with the relocation of the foodbank service, are helping to make a difference for those in need during these difficult times.”

A representative from the food bank said “Burgess Hill Community Food Bank is delighted to support this delivery.”

Jackie Cooper, chairman of Burgess Hill Youth, said: “Burgess Hill Youth were happy to host the Covid-19 project at their newly decorated community building by Fairfield Recreation Ground.

“The project was very much in keeping with the community ethos of our club and we enjoy working with partnership groups supporting families in need.”

A representative from the Food Bank said “Burgess Hill Community Food Bank are delighted to support this delivery. At some point we will be moving to a high street location.

“We are currently open at the Salvation Army, Cyprus Road and will be open under Covid conditions during our usual times from 11.00 - 1.00 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“We also deliver to people who cannot get to us due to self-isolation or infirmity. Our Hassocks and Hurstpierpoint associates are open as usual.”

One recipient of the food supplies said how it’s a ‘relief’ to be able to rely on friendly, non-judgemental people when times are hard.

They said: “I am so grateful to receive food and important supplies on a regular basis.

“It means I can help out local friends and neighbours with small bits and bobs.

“It’s times like this that we all need to come together and do what we can for our community.

“I’m so thankful to have such amazing support.”