The Whitby’s Pantry inside the Intact Centre in Preston is an invaluable resource supporting those suffering from food insecurity and poverty. Over 100 families rely on the Pantry to source affordable food. Members contribute £6 and in return are able to take £25 worth of groceries and toiletries.
In addition, bread, fresh fruit and vegetables are always provided free. Many of those members also act as volunteers at Intact which helps support the community. Whitby’s Pantry is even more important at this time of year. Andrew Francis, who manages the Pantry is preparing special Christmas packages for these families to bring a little joy over the festive period.
Members of Preston Guild Lodge No 4408, returned to the Intact Centre with their donation of groceries and toiletries. Being aware of Andrew’s plans, supplies of mince pies and shortbread were added to the donation. This is in addition to the Cadbury’s Selection Boxes provided to support the Winter Wonderland. Some of these will find their way into the Christmas packages.
Master of Preston Guild Lodge, Noel Colley, led a team of elves from the lodge to collect supplies and deliver to Intact. This year they have been able to provide over £1,000 worth of foodstuffs. Special thanks to Aldi Fulwood for their assistance with putting the order together for us.