Do you all know that there is always a collection point in the porch for donations of non-perishable foodstuff and toiletries? If you are not already familiar with it you will find it to your right as you come into the church.  We collect these items to support Cheltenham Community Projects Food Share scheme. This is an emergency food distribution service for people and families in times of crisis.  These are generally people who suddenly find themselves facing poverty and hunger due to loss of salary, change in benefits, unexpected large bills, illness or family breakdown. Over 500 food parcels are distributed every year.

Christmas is always seen as a special time of year but this is not the case for many children, families and vulnerable adults in Gloucestershire.

The expense and expectation can place a real strain on disadvantaged families with low incomes or extreme family circumstances, and many lone adults miss out on the festivities simply because they have nobody to care about them at this time of year.

For these reasons the Food Share scheme is extended at Christmas to become the “Hamper Scamper”.  This year the scheme is being co-ordinated by CCP’s social work students who have been given the task of begging for, gathering, sorting, wrapping and distributing over 300 gifts and 160 Christmas food hampers.  If you’d like to help they’d love to hear from you. Gifts for children and young adults such as toys, books, games, hats, gloves, socks and toiletries would be welcomed.

Our monetary gifts will go towards the continuing work of CCP as it strives to improve the lives of children, young people, families and vulnerable adults who have multiple and complex needs. Their priority is to those who have been excluded or have excluded themselves from mainstream services. This free services works with the person and other agencies to create a sustainable package of care and support networks, which enables them to realise their aspirations and reach their full potential in life.