Over 100 food bags delivered to Sheffield's elderly

One hundred and eight food bags have been distributed to older people who are isolating, thanks to the people who donated to Age UK Sheffield’s urgent fundraising appeal.

The deliveries have been made by a small army of volunteers who put their names

forward to help the city’s older people in their hour of need, including Phil Ashford.

Phil had not previously volunteered for Age UK Sheffield, but got in touch following

our appeal at the end of March.

He said: “I was at a bit of a loose end as I was about to start a new job when the

coronavirus outbreak started. Because I’d got some time on my hands it seemed like a good idea to do what I could to help people who were left on their own.”

Phil spent two afternoons delivering food parcels, and says he has benefited

personally from the experience: “It’s been good, it’s given me something to do.

“It’s been good to go out and speak to people, deliver their parcels and make sure they’re OK, whilst maintaining the social distancing.”

Age UK Sheffield has put a temporary hold on volunteer recruitment, having been

inundated with offers of help in recent weeks which is incredible. But the fundraising appeal to pay for the food being delivered is ongoing.

Following the initial delivery of some bags, Age UK Sheffield received lovely feedback including: “The basket this morning has made my day. It has brought tears to my eyes.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the appeal can do so by visiting the Virgin Money Giving website and searching for “Age UK Sheffield, or visit the website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/sheffield/get-involved/urgent-appeal/

Age UK Sheffield is an independent charity which provides information, advice, services and resources to people aged 50 and over in our city.

The charity relies on residents' support to keep serving the community. It is supported by donations from the public and some charitable grants.

Its office is based in the Fire Service HQ in the city centre and also operate fr om the Wellbeing Centre in Norfolk Park.

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