We have been extremely busy since Covid - 19 first sent us into the unknown, we knew we had to do something to support our users and those who were most vulnerable in our communities but what could we do, and what could we do safely was the bigger question?
We discovered that the older people in our communities were now isolated more than ever, so we put together a program of busy bags that could be delivered and a weekly delivery of afternoon tea! This was received gladly by the older community members, we then went on to provide a series’ of themed busy bags for the younger community members. From science to craft, we kept the youngsters entertained while they were staying safe at home.
Through the school holidays we have been providing packed lunch to any community members that have needed that little bit of extra support.
Our drivers and volunteers have been amazing through the crisis. It has not been easy as our first response is to open the doors and let everyone in, unfortunately, through the pandemic this has been impossible, social distancing and no public allowed in the building has meant we have had to learn to work differently, still coordinating a response, just maintaining a safer, more creative way of doing it!
Funding has been vital to coordinate this response, we have been extremely grateful to the National Lottery Covid Fund, WCVA, CAF, Interlink, Pen Y Cymoedd, Moondance Foundation, ICF and donations received from the public, this has enabled us to continue working. We are so very thankful for this support.
So many amazing people offered us help and support, we were so lucky to have community members volunteer to deliver our busy bags, we have been so thankful to our third sector partners who we have joined forces with to create a network of support for communities. From Welcome to Our Woods to Arts Factory Ferndale, we have banded together, shared good practice and supported each other as best we can.
Our mental health provision has continued via Zoom thanks to our amazing Lisa, she has continued to support all those who needed her help! She is a superstar!
We don’t know what the future holds, or what that future looks like at the moment, but we do know, as long as we safely can, we will continue to be there for all those who need us.
