STAFF at a Derby school have set up a food bank on site so they can distribute supplies to pupils’ families who are struggling financially during lockdown.
Kingsmead School, in Bridge Street, is appealing for members of the public to support the initiative, which was launched with a £100 donation of supplies from Asda.
They are appealing for donations of non-perishable food, toiletries and household items so they can distribute them to needy or vulnerable families.
Pastoral lead Tina Norton was moved to set up the food bank after some parents confided that they were suffering hardship during the pandemic.
Derby’s Kingsmead School, in Bridge Street, has launched a food bank to support vulnerable families during the pandemic.
Although those pupils who receive free school dinners are entitled to £15 of food vouchers every week, Tina was concerned that the money was not always enough to feed hungry teenagers.
She said: “Part of my role is to speak to parents regularly and a number have confided that they are struggling financially, so I approached Asda to ask if they would help.
“They donated a trolley-full of goods, which we have dropped on the doorsteps of some families who have been extremely grateful. Anyone who has lived with a teenager will know they are permanently hungry and always after something to eat.
“We work hard to support parents all year round. In the past I have run cookery classes for parents and carers showing them how to make nutritious meals from scratch, but we are now living in extraordinary times.
“While some of our pupils come from disadvantaged homes there are also some families who have never been in this situation before.”
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A non-contact collection point has been set up in the school’s main reception where items can be dropped off between 9am and 2.30pm.
The school is appealing for donations of food such as pasta, cereal, rice, tins and tea or coffee as well as deodorant, shampoo, toilet paper and handwipes.
Mrs Norton added: “We encourage all our pupils to think of others and it’s important for staff to set the right example, so this is one way of doing so. If anyone would like to support our families we would be very grateful.”
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