Blackpool's 'Corona Kindness' campaign hands out half a million meals to those in need

The 'Corona Kindness' initiative, made up of Blackpool Council's catering, leisure and transport teams along with volunteers and local businesses, has delivered the equivalent of 502,400 meals in the form of food parcels.

The service began at the start of lockdown in March, initially as a means of supporting the free school meals service. Distribution then expanded to include the supply of food parcels to families and individuals in need.

Derek Wright, Blackpool Council’s catering services manager, said: “As a team, we are incredibly proud of the support we have been able to provide. Food plays such a vital role in the resilience of our community, health and wellbeing. The food distribution hub has been critical to the Corona Kindness response during the pandemic.

“The teams in catering, leisure and transport services are so proud that we have delivered the equivalent of 500,000 meals to our community, across our network of schools and hubs. It's been clear from the start that our community needed support, and we hope our efforts have made Blackpool stronger and more resilient.”

Since its launch, 12 Corona Kindness community hubs have provided food parcels, shopping assistance, medication supplies, a befriending service and a dog walking service. Community organisations involved include Warren Manor Day and Support Services, the Blackpool Football Community Trust, the Talbot and Brunswick Family Hub, the Magic Club, Blackpool Coastal Housing, the Boys and Girls Club, Revoeloution and HIS Provision, Groundwork, the Carers Centre, Empowerment, Blackpool Volunteer Service and Blackpool Promotions.

Food suppliers for the campaign include Trevors Food Service, Ribble Farm Fruit and Vegetables, Morris Bakers, Mars UK, Burtons Biscuits and Dunsters Farm.

Coun Lynn Williams, acting executive leader of Blackpool Council, said: “The employees, volunteers and organisations involved in the Corona Kindness campaign have each gone above and beyond – nothing has been too much trouble. The amazing figures demonstrate what a compassionate and caring community Blackpool is.

“As much as it’s about providing help for those in need, it’s also vital that people realise they have not been forgotten. Each new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic will no doubt bring about further changes to our day-to-day lives. However, Corona Kindness will still be here for people.

“Help is available for anyone who needs it – I urge anyone who is struggling to get in touch.”

The Corona Kindness campaign so far...

More than 3400 calls to the Corona Kindness helpline have been received

More than 2400 households have been contacted and offered assistance by a Corona Kindness coordinator

Almost 800 households have received doorstep deliveries from local shopping services

Almost 400 prescriptions have been picked up and delivered by Corona Kindness volunteers

Over 40 dogs are being walked regularly