Following our stints at the foodbank pre-Xmas, we were asked to help prepare another 60 parcels for families in need in Redbridge. There was lots for us to do as the number of volunteers had to be limited to the absolute minimum, in order to ensure strict social distancing.

Our job was to pack parcels and tailor them to recipients' needs as much as possible e.g. if they needed specific items for children and also toiletries and household items. Some parcels were for families of up to 7 people so there was quite a bit of ferrying bags to and from the sports hall to be picked up by volunteer drivers. We were so busy that the day flew and we ended up staying well past the allotted time, but we were pleased to help complete so many parcels and know that this would help ease the burden for people at this difficult time. Not a bad start to January!