The appeal for 1,000 tins of food by St John’s Church came to a dramatic close on Sunday 23rd October, as several young people raced to count the vast numbers received before the 7pm deadline.
The appeal, supported by Timothy Hackworth Primary School, St. John’s CofE (aided) Primary School and Thornhill Primary School, saw tins of food brought into the church by the bag full.
Shildon Alive (A Saint John’s Church project) established with Big Lottery funding in 2013, has seen a steady increase of those in food poverty over the years with over 6,000 meals distributed throughout 2015.
“This summer” commented Revd David “we saw the number of families with children needing basic food support double, while Shildon was one of only 12 local authority areas in Co. Durham that saw its economic fortunes continue to decline over the last three years.”
However, while this might appear a bleak picture the community has also seen an outpouring of generosity and mutual support that has exceeded all expectations.
In appealing for 1,000 tins the church was hoping to see food support secured for the next couple of months. What was actually collected, however, was more than double this with a final total, announced by 15 year-old Megan McTearnan, as 2,038 tins ranging from fine steak to baked beans.
“This is an amazing result” said Revd David when the applause and cheering subsided, “it is a perfect example of local people, looking out for local people, Shildon has much to be proud of.”
As the 6pm Sunday night Café Church drew to an end an army of volunteers armed with carrier bags started to bag the food ensuring that no one will go hungry in Shildon this winter.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
