Thoughtful pupils from Maple Hayes Dyslexia School set up Food Bank collection

Thoughtful pupils from a specialist school for Dyslexia in Lichfield have collected hundreds of items for a local food bank.

Children of all ages, along with their parents and teachers from Maple Hayes Dyslexia School, have made sure those less fortunate than them are looked after during the festive season.

Hundreds of items of food, drink and even some gifts were collected during a special drive these past few weeks for those living in and around the city.

The pupils took time out of their studies to sort through the items they had collected, to make sure they were distributed to Lichfield Foodbank, based at Wade Street Church Office in the centre of town.

The food donations will be used to support people across the local area who are struggling to put food on the table this Christmas and could be forced to use a food bank over the festive period. 

People are being asked to donate long-life items such as tinned potatoes and vegetables, tinned ham, mince pies and treats to contribute to the 600 Christmas food bags which the food bank anticipates will be needed this year.

Headteacher Dr Daryl Brown said he was really proud of their efforts and said it would be a cause they would continue to support.

“Especially after such a hard two years of the pandemic along with the poor weather we have been experiencing, and with Christmas upon us, it’s important that we all think of those less fortunate than ourselves.

“The foodbank is a perfect way for us to give a little back to the community we live and work within, and our pupils, their parents, families and our staff went above and beyond this year to create a good donation. We will make sure we continue to do this well into the new year, and hope our support also encourages others to do so too. It only takes us all just buying a couple of extra items for each shop, to donate and make a difference,” he added.

Once items are donated, volunteers sort food to check that it’s in date and pack it into boxes ready to be given to people in need. 

Foodbanks partner with a wide range of care professionals such as doctors, health visitors, social workers and police to identify people in crisis and issue them with a foodbank voucher.

To donate too, visit https://lichfield.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/donate-food/