Hub offers support to those struggling in Shoreham, Southwick and Fishersgate

The Shoreham, Southwick and Fishersgate Community Hub has been creating personalised parcels of food, toiletries, nappies and basic clothes for those who need it most.

A spokesman said: “The pandemic has amplified the effects to those living on or below the poverty line, and highlighted that more support is needed in these uncertain times.

“With supermarkets hard to reach, delivery costs unaffordable, children eating more at home, businesses in limbo, people isolating or caring for others, we recognise it is a difficult time for many.”

The hub operates with three strands. The ‘Grub Hub’ provides food vouchers, fresh food, emergency food, shopping for people who can afford it but cannot get out and care parcels.

The ‘Kids’ Hub’ provides baby care parcels, children’s clothes gift wrapped by age and stage, children’s activity and educational packages, toys, books, children’s birthday cakes and gifts.

The ‘Help Hub’ provides advocacy, signposting and help with navigating the benefits system, help with housing issues, befriending people who are isolated, up to date information and advice about local shops and services.

The hub is still welcoming donations, which a team of dedicated volunteers – following strict social distancing measures – are organising into parcels for residents.

The crowfunding page is another way that people can support the project.

“Those struggling may not be immediately obvious to others, but by donating we can ensure we can get support where it is needed most,” the spokesman said.

The target of £7,921 has already been reached, but people are still being encouraged to donate to the hub here.

Follow the Hub’s Instagram page for the latest news at @ssfcs2020

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