Carrickfergus volunteers deliver 1,000th hamper

Liz Toner Hughes, Barnt Halt Cottages, receives the 1,000th food hamper distributed by a team of volunteers during the pandemic, from John Stewart MLA, included is Angela Williams, scheme manager.

Volunteers delivered their 1,000th hamper with a resident of Barn Halt Cottages, Carrickfergus, the recipient on Saturday afternoon.

The project, spearheaded by East Antrim UUP MLA John Stewart with Carrickfergus Cricket Club as its focal point, has proved hugely popular across the constituency with up to 30 people involved in the delivery of the hampers in recent weeks.

Speaking on Saturday, John said: “A proud milestone today as we pass 1,000 food hampers now delivered to elderly and vulnerable people across East Antrim

Volunteers at Carrickfergus Cricket Club on Saturday for another round of hamper deliveries.

“With a hamper delivered this afternoon to each of the 26 residents in Barn Halt Cottages and 14 residents in Victoria Court, Whitehead, we past the 1000th hamper to be delivered since we started the project on my driveway five weeks ago.

“Liz Toner Hughes of Barn Halt Cottages was delighted to receive the 1000th hamper and it was great to grab a quick chat and photograph with her.”

John went on to stress “this couldn’t have been done without the help of the volunteers”.

“You have all been amazing guys.

“#InThisTogether — feeling proud with Paul Aston, Patricia Davis, John Stewart, Ryan Eagleson, Ben Crook, Lauren Drummond, Rachael Watson, Gareth Mills Estate Agents, Vivo Essentials Eden, Barn Youth Academy, Carrickfergus Cricket Club, Carrickfergus Senior Gateway Club, Barn Halt Cottages and Carrickfergus Rotary Club.

“A final thank you to each person, business and organisation who has kindly donated goods or money to support this appeal. We couldn’t do it without your continued generosity.”

The hamper project will continue for as long as this service is needed, if you would like to donate or nominate someone to receive a food hamper send John a private message via his Facebook page or call him on 07391863571.

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