The annual Christmas carols service held by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service raised more than £350 for charity.
A total of £373.70 was collected at the popular Festival of Carols held this year at Barnabas Community Church, Longden Coleham, Shrewsbury, and shared between the Fire Fighters’ Charity and food bank Plus, based in Shrewsbury.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Andy Johnson today donated £186.85 to the church food bank which will buy nine food parcels for people in need.
“We aim to do as much as we possibly can to help the community and each year we share the proceeds of our carol service. A lot of staff are always involved in raising money for both the Fire Fighters’ Charity and other charities,” said Andy.
food bank Plus Project Leader Karen Williams, was busy today with volunteers handing out 80 shopping bags full of Christmas food, crackers and children’s presents.
“People have a choice to heat or eat. That is the reality,” said Karen, whose organisation now feeds 125 people every week, compared with 62 in the summer.
They receive a shopping bag each week packed with more than 20 food items including breakfast cereals, pasta, rice, tinned fruit and vegetables, toothpaste and shampoo.
But it’s not just about giving food away. The organisation also helps people with debts, getting a job, health issues, woodwork, gardening and budget cookery sessions.
“We try and offer a holistic service. It’s not just about giving food away. Some people are in crisis.”
A total of 60 people volunteer for 105 hours a week to deliver the service supported by donors who give money and goods. They accept donations all year round with someone normally on site at the Shrewsbury church between 9am and 4pm during the week.
For more information about how you can help visit www.barnabascommunityprojects.org or visit them on Facebook and twitter.
