More than 220 Foxhills members have chosen to donate their November membership subscriptions to local food banks as part of an initiative to ensure fewer people go hungry during the festive period.
This equates to a £25k donation to foodbanks in Runnymede and Weybridge which will go towards 300 food hampers for families – including a supermarket gift voucher to buy fresh food, 400 ‘food for lunch’ bags for school children, as well as emergency food for families in need. As an option for recompense, members were invited to donate their missed month’s membership subscription to local food banks in time for Christmas.
Angela Miller from Runnymede Foodbank said: “We truly can’t thank Foxhills and its members enough for everything they have done to support us. Their kindness and generosity is completely overwhelming.”
This money, which was donated is helping to provided food parcels during the Winter period, with current Covid restrictions of national lockdown is a lifesaver for many residents.“When meeting with the representatives at Foxhills to thank them for the very generous donation, surprise was expressed about areas of deprivation within Runnymede and the surrounding area. The common assumption is one of the whole of Surrey being very affluent.
It was felt that residents are suffering because of the pandemic and the resultant job losses from huge employers like the businesses at Heathrow Airport. The hope was this donation would support the Foodbank over a crucial period.
Marcus Hayton, Managing Director is hopeful of some “thank you” events being held at Foxhills, when the restrictions are lifted and larger gatherings can resume.
Cllr Elaine Gill, Mayor of Runnymede, once again expressed her gratitude for the donation and looked forward to participating in future events during her Mayoralty.
