Hartlepool voluntary project delivering over 100 meals and care parcels to elderly and vulnerable cut off residents

More than 200 volunteers have signed up to the Poolie Time Exchange to help deliver essential supplies to the front doors of elderly and vulnerable people during the national emergency.

The scheme is operating from the Burbank Community Centre three days a week.

Demand is increasing every day and organisers are appealing for supporters to donate to an online fund to be able to continue to meet it.

Ian Cawley, manager of the centre, said: “On day one we delivered nearly 100 hot meals and food parcels.

“Demand is going up every day. We are delivering mainly to elderly and vulnerable people and the isolated.”

The project, also led by Stephen Picton and Hartlepool councillors Dave Hunter and Amy Prince, put out an appeal for more volunteers around two weeks ago in readiness of the current lockdown.

Ian added: “The collective effort has been absolutely unbelievable.

“We have had more than 200 volunteers sign up and more coming down every day wanting to do their bit.”

A large number of care packages containing treats for care workers were also given out in the community and to care homes in town.

Several fridges and feezers have been donated by supporters and the project is looking at possibly starting a second kitchen at another location.

Ian added: “We’ve also had support from the council with things like extra bins and just keeping us in the loop.

“We have also made an offer to support the council with our volunteers as well.”

But along with money and donations in kind, they are also appealing for any face masks, hand sanitiser, and gloves to protect themselves.

Anyone wishing to receive a delivery from Poolie Time Exchange can call 07493 358529 between the hours of 10am and 2pm.

Requests for help are decided on need and a case by case basis due to demand.

To make a donation go to the funding page entitled Isolation Help at GoFundMe.com