To ensure we have ongoing stock, an appeal has been launched by Southampton City Council for businesses to donate any unused Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or non-perishable food for local foodbanks to be distributed to the most vulnerable residents in our city.
Following Government guidance, many businesses have now temporarily closed to help stop the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and to ensure people stay home. Businesses such as restaurants, gyms, cleaning companies and hardware stores may have PPE or non-perishable food not being used that they are able to donate.
If businesses have any unused items such as gloves, disposable aprons, or face masks to be donated, please contact Rob Gloyns at Rob.Gloyns@southampton.gov.uk / 02380 832983 to arrange.
Food Banks are now, more than ever, helping to feed the nation and the council is also asking businesses for food donations to keep local food banks stocked up for those who need support. Non-perishable items that are required include foods such as: tinned vegetables, tinned cold meats and desserts such as rice pudding and custard.
Southampton City Council has built a distribution hub in partnership with Love Southampton, Mutual Aid Groups, SVS and Love Southampton, that is capable of receiving large donations, with capability to distribute food across the city to households who most need it.
Councillor Lorna Fielker, Cabinet Member for Adult Care at Southampton City Council, said:
“During these unprecedented times, we are facing challenges sourcing enough PPE to help our dedicated team of Social Care Workers, Care Workers and other front-line staff stop the spread of Covid-19. We also need to ensure we have enough food to help those vulnerable residents who need it most.
We would be extremely grateful to any businesses who are able to donate any of these items. More than ever, it’s so important that we are able to do everything in our power to help our most vulnerable residents and that our staff can safely support them.”
If businesses are able to donate any non-perishable food, they can contact Sara Crawford at Sara.Crawford@southampton.gov.uk / 02380 832673
