Increase in calls to Community Resource Centre
It’s been a hectic few weeks for the Arklow Community Action Resource Centre, following a rise in calls from people looking for help in the current pandemic.
Speaking to this paper, Hillary Sharpe of Arklow Community Action Resource Centre said ‘ the need is there. I find more people are seeking support. Some families are at breaking point’.
Due to the coronavirus, the centre is closed but continues to work to help as many people as possible. Hillary said the centre has received calls for support from Aughrim, Avoca, Tinahely and as far south as Gorey, Co. Wexford. While food deliveries can’t be made to all of these areas, the centre tries its best to help all those who get in contact to ask for support.
Food Cloud deliveries continue to bring fresh fruit and vegetables to the Paramount Arcade premises, which are then prepared for distribution, following strict physical distancing protocols, to families being supported by the centre. Deliveries are taking place weeknights, with a smaller number at weekends. Others have called directly to the centre by arrangement to collect food.
Tesco, Kerry Foods plant in Shillelagh, TK Maxx and others have also made donations of food or vouchers to the centre in recent weeks.
‘I want to thank all those who are supporting the centre and Arklow Meals on Wheels. The pandemic has brought out a spirit of generosity in the community that I have never witnessed before. The support has been heart-warming,’ Hillary said.
If you’d like to make a donation of vouchers or food items or are in need of support, you can call the Arklow Community Action Resource Centre on 0402 33837.