Vital support available for vulnerable residents in Mid and East Antrim

Families, older citizens and those identified as being most at risk are benefiting from the initiative, which is being led by the Department for Communities, in conjunction with health trusts, local councils, the voluntary and community sector and the private sector.

The food packages include items such as tinned goods, dried foods, breakfast cereal and some essential toiletries.

Community groups can access the Community Hub and the services it provides using the following contact details: telephone: 028 9600 1333 or 07918939797 (Monday to Friday 9am-5pm) or email: [email protected].

Local voluntary and community organisations and council staff are distributing the food packages in line with Public Health Agency health protection guidelines.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr Maureen Morrow, said: “This is very welcome news for the many people in our local communities who have been urged to shield themselves and protect their own health and wellbeing at this difficult time.

“We are seeing first-hand how tough the coronavirus pandemic is for people from all walks of life and across all age brackets and so this initiative, which the council is supporting to deliver in the borough, is a helping hand to the people who need it most.”

Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey MLA, added: “This vital service will ensure that those most in need in our society who do not have a support network of family and friends to help them through this emergency will have access to basic food supplies.

“Not only will it ensure that the most vulnerable do not go without but it will allow those at risk of social isolation to see a friendly face and know that we as a society have not forgotten them.”

For the latest information, advice and guidance on the support available at this time, visit: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/covid-19

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