A few weeks ago I received a call from Glentoran suggesting we might have another food collection for The Larder. Let me explain. The Larder is a local food bank operating out of St Christopher's Church in Parkgate Drive, literally at the gates of the Oval. So far in 2014 we have given bags of food to over 1400 people. It is emergency food, so if there is a crisis in payment of benefits or someone loses a job or an emergency occurs that requires extra money a family or a person may need a helping hand for a week or two. All clients come to the Larder by referral from recognised agencies and churches. As you can imagine this requires a certain amount of organising and a whole lot of groceries etc. We try to include toiletries and cleaning materials (even occasionally dog food!).
On offer from Glentoran to host the second food collection was just music to our ears. So, last Saturday we were there, the wheelie bins were there, and, most importantly, you were there with your food and cash donations. You filled three wheelie bins and gave us £171 in cash which will become bread, milk and butter for a few weeks.
Thank you for your support and the sense of goodwill that was obvious from your words and greetings. We do feel that there is a growing sense of partnership and cooperation around Mersey Street and the greater Ballymacarrett area. It is much needed and greatly appreciated.
Thank you to all of you and to all at Glentoran.
Adrian McCartney (St Christopher’s)