Over 100 food hampers delivered to those in need

The hampers were distributed to people who are receiving one-to-one support through our outreach service – which helps them manage their home, finances and health, and improve their independence.

Our outreach support workers nominated individuals and families who they felt needed some extra joy this Christmas.

Each hamper contained a variety of sweet and savoury treats, such as chocolates, pickles, cream crackers, Christmas puddings and crisps.

Laura Kemsley, Essex Outreach Manager, commented:

“The high cost of living has sadly led to many of our residents using food banks for their shopping. ‘Unessential’ treats like chocolate are one of the many things people have cut back on. So to make these hampers special, we packed them with goodies that some of our customers haven’t had for a while.”

This is the seventh year running of our hamper initiative, and with 107 delivered this month it is one of our most successful years yet.

The boxes were hand-delivered by our team to people living across Essex, including: Basildon, Chelmsford, Brentwood, Epping, Rochford, Rayleigh, Castle Point, Colchester, Maldon, Braintree, Harlow and Tendring.

This initiative was funded by the Peabody Community Foundation, the Outreach Customer Involvement Fund, and some additional donations were made by our Customer Care Line team, who respond to calls and messages from our customers.

We have received some great feedback from our residents:

“I am overwhelmed with my hamper and I can’t thank you enough.”

“Thank you for my box. It’s so very much appreciated. And thank you for the brilliant service. I am doing very well knowing support is here and has helped me back to having feet firmly on the ground.”

“This is a very hard time at the moment and we appreciate every bit of help you all send our way. It means SO much!”

“A very big thank you for our wonderful hamper, which is perfect as we'll eat everything in it. More importantly though, thank you for your help and support.”

We have provided floating support on behalf of Essex county council and 12 local authorities since 2019. By developing a strong partnership network, prioritising outcomes and using support innovations, we have helped thousands of individuals to overcome crisis, avoid homelessness and flourish.