Nothing funny about not being able to afford food

Wednesday = a couple of hours packing food parcels at the food bank. ALWAYS.

It's hard to overstate the importance of this task. We've done shifts at least once a week (and more often 2 or more) for over a year. We know that the food bank is a life line to many, but nonetheless any task can become routine after a while, until something brings you up short and reminds you how awful it is that people are forced to rely on a food bank.

Last night one of the regular delivery drivers told me that one of the recipients hadn't eaten for 2 days when their parcel was dropped off.

This just shouldn't happen.

I know that Oxford Mutual Aid hugely appreciate the GoodGym volunteers. Please know how crucial your role is in ensuring people can eat each day.

On to the stats:

• 340 food parcels were delivered last week, containing essential toiletries, cleaning products and baby products too. They helped 620 adults, 308 children and 89 babies.
  
• Oxford Mutual Aid also delivered over 300 reheatable meals to households across Oxford - a joint effort including teams at the Dragon School, Refugee Resource, St. Edwards School and Taste Tibet.
  
• 24 parcels went to residents who are being supported by St. Mungo’s and were recently rehoused having been living precariously.
  
• 30 parcels were distributed to 66 adults and 84 children through partnerships with Syrian Sisters and Oxford Asian Women’s Voice at Rose Hill.
  

Well done on your 10th Good Deed John!