Pride as food parcels go to thousands in Blackpool

Food parcels are being delivered from 12 hubs as part of the council-run initiative with the town hall's catering service at the helm alongside redeployed staff from closed leisure centres, and transport teams.

In total 214,000 meals have been sent out in 16,700 food parcels with each parcel containing three daily meals for a week (or five days if part of the free school meals system) for vulnerable families and individuals, including those on the NHS shielded list.

Derek Wright, the council’s catering services manager, said: “We are very proud the catering service and leisure services could support our council and community with the emergency food distribution.

"We are all committed to serving and supporting our community, and we are one of many departments that have made changes to deliver essential services.

“Our staff and volunteers who have helped provide this service should be very proud.

"It's been clear from the start of this crisis that our community needed support, and we hope our efforts will make Blackpool stronger and more resilient.”

Since its launch in March, the Corona Kindness helpline has received more than 1,750 calls with an average of 1,000 emails per week.

Council leader Coun Simon Blackburn said: "Each day presents new challenges, yet everyone involved continues to dig deep and show incredible community spirit.

"My most sincere thanks go to those who continue to contribute – the coordinators, the staff, the volunteers, businesses and our partner organisations. We are making a real and tangible difference to people’s lives."

More than 1,100 households have been contacted and offered assistance by a Corona Kindness co-ordinator. Of those households:

Almost 500 have received assistance from local shopping services providing doorstep delivery.

140 prescriptions have been picked up and delivered by Corona Kindness volunteers.

15 dogs are being walked regularly.

People needing help can email [email protected] or call 0808 196 30 80 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. To offer help email [email protected]