Organisations across Bath and North East Somerset helping people who are struggling to make ends meet are sharing details about the best way to donate and volunteer this Christmas for anyone who wishes to spread some festive cheer.

Bath & North East Somerset Council has worked with food banks, food pantries and other volunteer groups to compile a list of what is needed and when to help residents wanting to brighten up Christmas for others.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, Communities and Culture, said: “We are fortunate to have a generous community in Bath and North East Somerset, but sometimes people wishing to donate or volunteer are unsure about the best way to help.

“The volunteer organisations do a fantastic job of distributing the items that people have kindly donated, but in previous years there has been an excess of certain items that unfortunately end up not being used as much as the kind donors intended.

“That’s why we’ve compiled this list to help anyone who wants to support people struggling to put food on the table to have a happy Christmas.

“If you are in a position to donate, have a look at what is needed locally to you. Not all of the support needed is food – you might be able to help with

driving or even lead a Christmas singalong! Thank you to everyone who helps to bring the festive spirit to those in need this Christmas.”

Claire Henwood from Oasis Pantry said: “We are grateful to everyone who donates and offers help at this time of year. It lets people know they are considered and cared for and it makes such a difference.

“We want to make the most of all donations and support, so letting the public know how best to help us will make for a happier Christmas for people coming to our pantries.”

“Last year we had this feedback from a family: ‘Wanted to thank you so much for the food and presents from Oasis.

Really, really helped. Thanks so much. I pretended the elves left the activity bag on the doorstep for the children on

Christmas Eve… big excitement! Thanks so much to all you very kind people.’”

Donations and support are welcomed by the following organisations.

FOOD Clubs in Children’s Centres, for families with school age children, need support with bulk food items preferred to individual donations, toiletries, sanitary products, cooking equipment and volunteers/anyone who has an interest in supporting families in need and an interest in food and driving. Radstock Library and Keynsham Civic Centre will continue to run weekly FOOD clubs throughout the festive period, except the week between Christmas and New Year.

The Somer Valley Foodbank need food donations at other times of the year, but not at Christmas. Cash donations are welcome and any Christmas items received will be distributed or go to someone who makes Christmas hampers for Radstock Children’s Centre. Contact Paul Woodward: [email protected] for more information or visit: somervalley.food bank.org.uk/give-help/

donate-money FoodCycle Bath need donation support to be able to put on this year’s free Christmas Dinner for the community.

It will be on Wednesday, 15th December at 7.30pm in Nexus Methodist Church in Bath.

The final free communtiy meal will be at 7.30 on Wednesday, 22nd December at the same venue.

Weekly community dining will begin on Wednesday, 5th January 2022 at 7.30pm in Nexus Methodist Church.

Residents can also find the information on the Council’s Live Well website.

A keyboard player and singers are also required to lead festive music for Bath’s Open Christmas event. Technical support is also needed to move volunteer applications online. Cash donations are also welcome to buy goods required to make 400+ lunches.