The organisations helping feed Newcastle during coronavirus pandemic

This has resulted in dozens of charitable and voluntary organisations stepping forward to ensure those unable to fend for themselves get hold of even the most basic commodities. The most pressing demand has been for food.

Among the many organisations who have responded to meet this significant requirement is Sporting Chance.

Before self-isolation and social distancing were everyday phrases, Sporting Chance provided education and training opportunities to people that may face barriers in accessing mainstream education from its Cowgate base.

In January, it took over the Lavender Kitchen community café in Cowgate, transforming surplus food into meals for the community.

That operation ceased when strict measures were introduced to help stop the spread of coronavirus, but supplying food to those who needed was no longer confined to NE5 but expanded to meet demand throughout the city.

When lockdown was implemented, the need for free and low-cost food soared with people being furloughed or losing their jobs altogether. The most vulnerable members of society needed help and founder Jamie Cairns decided to build on existing connections with supermarkets and other suppliers and get out to deliver food where it was needed.

Referrals flooded in through social media as news of the new operation spread. Sporting Chance also answered the call of Citylife Line, taking further referrals through the newly-established city-wide coronavirus support service.

From a standing start, more than 2,200 parcels have been delivered. That number rises by up to 200 each day as the 15-strong team of staff and volunteers work relentlessly to keep residents fed.

It takes a colossal effort with multiple daily supply pick-ups, coordinating deliveries, disinfecting stocks and vehicles, training volunteers, implementing safeguarding measures to protect recipients and adhering to social distancing. Stocks are topped using cash donations through a crowdfunding page set up by Sporting Chance.

“We’re doing absolutely everything, but it’s a lifeline that we need in the current climate,” says Jamie.

“I’ve barely seen my daughter since this started and other people are the same because they are working flat out.”

There are many others like Sporting Chance who have witnessed the struggles people are facing who have responded with incredibly selfless with an immense community spirit the motivation to keep fighting other people’s corners.

Cllr Nick Forbes, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “This is an entirely different challenge that we’ve not seen before but there are individuals and organisations out there doing remarkable things for their communities.

“This is a global crisis, but the way local people have responded and helped shoulder the burden makes me truly proud to be a part of this community.

“To each and every person doing their bit to help others, thank you.”

Much of the effort to assist the most vulnerable residents during the lockdown has been coordinated by Citylife Line, which was established in March to allow people to make their need for assistance known. Enquiries have since come in from more than 2000 individuals with their needs referred to voluntary and community sector organisations across the city.

A fundraising appeal was also launched, which was seen individuals, businesses and other pledge over £40,000 to help with the costs of purchasing food and other essential goods.

The following organisations have helped supply food to residents in Newcastle having received referrals through Citylife Line: Caring Hands Charity, Children North East, Cornerstone - Benwell Christian Shop Project, Dinnington Parish Council, FoodCycle, Lemington Food Bank at Lemington Methodist Church, Life Vineyard Church (Byker Pantry), Newcastle Central Mosque, Newcastle United Foundation, Newcastle West End Foodbank, North East Homeless, Pottery Bank Community Centre, Scotswood Garden, Search - services for older people, Sporting Chance north east, The Wise Group, West End Women and Girls Centre, Youth Justice Service, Magic Hat Café, Fareshare NE, Heaton Baptist Church, Ashburton Residents

Read more about Citylife Line at www.newcastle.gov.uk/citylifeline or make a donation here.