In the early stages of the lockdown in March 2020, Revd Elaine placed fruit and vegetables in bags on a table at her gate. Local friends and neighbours dropped by and picked them up. Word spread and those who know Elaine on Kinsman estate also took advantage of some free food while their children were now at home and needing an increased diet from the family budget.
A local shop supplemented the supply of food. A local charity noticed what was going on and offered grant support to provide more. By this time Elaine was fielding frequent calls and messages from families whose struggles were worsening. The level of trust invested in Elaine from her long years embedded in people’s lives meant that confidence in her support was very high.
As restrictions began to ease, the distribution of food and other household supplies began to increase. Further grants were secured, and additional staff capacity was added so that Elaine could collate supplies specifically targeted at the needs of particular families, and get them delivered.
