Donations help to kick start hub scheme in Blaby

Council is hoping more donations of help will come in

LOCAL businesses and organisations have come together to help the community in Blaby during the coronavirus outbreak.

emh homes and Marks & Spencer have been the first to donate to Blaby District Council’s Community Hub scheme, which is helping the most vulnerable and isolated residents of the district. More contributions from businesses are expected to come as the council responds to the coronavirus outbreak.

The Community Hub anyone who needs help, looks after prioritising those who have no one else to help them and who are the most vulnerable, including those aged over 70, residents with an underlying health condition and families struggling to cope.

Other voluntary groups that have been set up in villages across the district to help their neighbours will also be supported to make sure they can continue to offer help.

Marks & Spencer has donated two significant quantities of food, with hopefully more to come. The new partnership with the Fosse Park-based retailer will see the donated food going towards the packages for residents who are unable to pay for food or having difficulty getting hold of money to pay for food.

emh homes have donated £1,250 to the Hub to supplement food donations and to ensure items can be bought over the coming weeks to support residents.

Councillor Terry Richardson, Leader of Blaby District Council, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the donations from both emh homes and Marks & Spencer. These are the first two donations and we’re hoping to have more to follow.

“We have been blown away by the community spirit across the whole district during this difficult period, including from our businesses who have stepped up to help those most in need. We will welcome any businesses who want to help residents and would encourage them to get in touch with us.”

Andrew Aveyard, Store Manager of M&S Fosse Park, said: “The Fosse Park team are committed to supporting our local community, and we are delighted to partner with

Blaby council to ensure vulnerable people across the local community are supported during these unprecedented times.”

Businesses can help the Community Hub in any way they can, from donations to staff volunteers helping across the district. Any businesses interested can email Blaby.districtCOVID19@blaby.gov.uk or call 0116 275 0555.

Residents can volunteer to be part of the Community Hub or refer someone for assistance at www.blaby.gov. uk/community-hub.