Ashington store donates food to support people self-isolating

Horsham District Council said the donation was made to the community volunteer hub, one of several which has been set up across the district.

The hubs have been established by local community groups, parish and neighbourhood councils, social media groups and Horsham District Council for the vulnerable of the Horsham District.

They are manned by volunteers, giving practical help such as going for shopping and medicines, and providing emotional support, with friendly phone calls for those who are isolated at home.

A spokeswoman for Horsham District Council said: “If you would like to help support the Horsham District Community Volunteer Hubs and other local organisations helping vulnerable people, you can now donate funds securely by text or online.

“The support appeal is possible thanks to registered charity The Hub Beeding and Donorfy https://donorfy.com/ who provide award-winning fundraising software to non-profit organisations across the UK.

“Your donations will be used to cover costs for food and medication for those in need as well as helping to stock food banks for those who need essential items.

“You can donate as little or as much as you would like. To give £20 by mobile, just text HUBS to 70085. Texts cost £20 (the donation) plus one standard rate message.

“Alternatively you can donate by debit or credit card by clicking on this link http://www.horsham.gov.uk/covid19appeal. Your data will be held in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018.

“If you pay tax the value of your donation will be increased if you take the Gift Aid option Read more about Gift Aid here.”

Funds are distributed proportionately to the Community Hubs and a small number of local support organisations including Horsham Matters, she added.

The calculations for dividing the funds between the hubs is based upon size of the residential population they cover.

Horsham District Council cabinet member for community matters and wellbeing councillor Tricia Youtan said: “This is a very worrying and concerning time for many people and this appeal will provide additional help for our community.

“The community spirit which has grown so rapidly across our entire district in recent weeks to establish these hubs is amazing and this is an opportunity to pull together even more to help our volunteers deliver improved help to those who need it most.

“I urge as many of you that feel able to start donating now, your donations will be well used and hugely appreciated.”

The council spokeswoman added: “Your donation is processed on behalf of the Horsham District Covid19 Community Hubs by The Hub, Beeding - registered charity number 1173420.

“Funds are distributed proportionately to the Community Hubs and Horsham Matters.”

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