Norwich Christian community project ENYP will continue to deliver thousands of ‘picnic bags’ of fresh food during the Coronavirus period to those in need across the city.
ENYP launched its Picnic Project initiative a couple of years ago and since then the demand for the project continues to grow. In 2019, over 11,000 people were fed through the project – an increase of 33% from the previous year.
Part of the project includes providing a ‘picnic bag’ of food (fresh produce including fruit, vegetables, and bread) to help those suffering from food poverty, financial hardship and who are in crisis. Clients registered to the project include families, individuals and the elderly.
Danny Doran-Smith, ENYP Director, said: “We are aware that the spreading of Coronavirus will impact us all further and until otherwise advised the Picnic Project will continue to deliver its picnic bags of food to those in need in Norwich. In addition to the fresh produce, we are able to provide pre-packaged meals and tinned items to help support those who struggle to shop for themselves.
“ENYP’s support is mainly focused on families and children, however, we also support older people and the vulnerable.
“We see the impact of food poverty and the inability to meet life’s basic needs as an ever prevalent issue, and in light of the current situation we recognise that individuals and families are likely to be further impacted. We will use our resources to deliver as much food as we can at this time to those in need.
“ENYP will continue to do its best to support people, however, we are mindful that with the growing demand we may not be able to meet everyone’s needs, therefore, the most vulnerable will be given priority at this time. New referrals will be put on an emergency waiting list,” said Danny.
In line with the call to support the National Day of prayer and action on Mothering Sunday ENYP also provided gifts and flowers to show acts of kindness. At a time when connecting socially with others is difficult these acts share love and give a message that they are in someone’s thoughts and not on their own.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Picnic Project or would like to make a referral please contact picnic@enyp.org.uk for more information.