'Reverse Advent calendar' will help foodbank in run-up to Christmas
Donations of food to help people over the Christmas period are being accepted as part of a ‘reverse Advent calendar’.
Estate agents Alasdair Morrison and Partners are accepting donations from now until Monday, December 18.
People can donate an item each day to fill up the Advent calendars. Non-perishable items can be left at the firm’s offices on Kirkgate, Newark, or King Street, Southwell.
Donations will be passed on to Newark Foodbank, whose manager, Mrs Lesley Marshall, said that even small items would make a big difference in the festive season.
“There are pressures all year round but we see a lot of people who are stressed and upset in the run-up to Christmas,” she said.
“Some come to us and say they cannot even afford to give their children beans on toast.
“One man said recently he was in such trouble that he would be forced to choose between food or heating.
“I have realised that the problems of people struggling to pay for food is not going to end – using foodbanks is inevitable, it’s not going to go away and it’s relentless.
“So for people to be able to give something, even if it’s small, is really important. It could even be some chocolate Christmas tree decorations, just to make it feel a little bit special.
“If we can provide a little bit extra for those who are struggling, it’s nice and really helps.”
A shopping list of much-needed items can be found at the Newark Foodbank website
Mr Alasdair Morrison, the firm’s senior partner, said: “We are sometimes not mindful of those who are not as fortunate as us, so if we can act as a drop-off centre for people and businesses then we are happy to do that.
“We want to help people have a better time and more enjoyment at this time of year.”
Any other businesses who are willing to act as drop-off points for donations should contact Alasdair Morrison and Partners on 01636 700888.
Newark Foodbank, located at Barnbygate Methodist Church, is open between 3pm and 5pm on Tuesdays, and between 1pm and 3pm on Fridays.
