Cowes-based Vectis Refrigeration has donated a large chest freezer to The Congregational Church and The Pop-up Soup Kitchen in Newport to support the 2 organisations during this time of crisis.
The COVID-19 crisis is making it difficult for many food banks and soup kitchens to fulfil their missions at a time when they are needed the most. The sharp and sudden economic crisis and movement restrictions caused by the pandemic has seen many businesses close, donations to food banks in some areas reduce and stockpiling by households. This has left many vulnerable individuals and families struggling to make ends meet and receive the wholesome food needed to stay healthy.
The Congregational Church in Pyle Street has been supporting the needy and homeless for over 4 years and in the current crisis has teamed up with Age UK to get as many meals safely to those vulnerable and in most need at this time. The safest way to do this is in frozen food portions. For them, supplies of much needed fresh produce has not been the issue, but being able to freeze the volumes of food being prepared is.
To help manage the situation, Vectis Refrigeration has not only donated a large chest freezer but will also fully maintain it at no cost.
Rev Mark Evans comments:
“This is a brilliant coming together of island business, charity and people of faith wanting to serve the islands needy at a time of crisis.”
Will Overton of Vectis Refrigeration adds:
“I first met Rev Evans at a meeting with Foodbank and was really pleased when he contacted me to highlight the need for a chest freezer. It comes at a time when we are working hard with Island supermarkets and convenience stores to ensure their freezers and cold cabinets are working effectively to keep food in the best condition for customers at this time of high demand. So agreeing to provide and maintain the chest freezer to ensure The Congregational Church and Age UK can deliver this essential support was an easy decision for me to make.”
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