Gatehouse, based in Dettingen Way, Bury St Edmunds, teams up with Bury Free Press for its Christmas appeal
Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, and one Bury St Edmunds charity is asking for your help to bring the festivities to those in need.
Gatehouse, based in Dettingen Way, has teamed up with the Bury Free Press for its Christmas appeal to help those struggling financially this festive period.
Donations of non-perishable food are sought to help the charity’s goal of delivering 700 hampers across the West Suffolk area.
Amanda Bloomfield, chief executive of Gatehouse, said demand for its services continues to grow in the wake of funding cuts and continuing recovery from the pandemic, but the generosity of the community in the face of this remains.
“The level of generosity shown by the numerous schools, churches, groups and individuals in this area is extraordinary,” she said.
“Everyone knows that, economically speaking, these are tough times and they’re likely to get tougher; and yet it seems that this only serves to intensify the generosity we see on a daily basis.”
“It is often said that voluntary work and kindness brings its own rewards – it does.
“Those who contribute make this happen, as well as being able to bear witness to the relief this work brings. Your donation no matter how big or small will contribute to a parcel that bring a smile to the face of those who otherwise would be struggling this Christmas.”
Amanda said Gatehouse is very short of food at present and any donations will help the charity on the way to making a big difference.
Cuts to funding from local and central government have been made since Covid, which is putting a strain on its Homestore and foodbank, but particularly the social supermarket.
She also recognised that the current economic climate is very challenging financially, and some people may not be able to donate.
But Amanda said, even for those in this situation, they can still help.
“Spread the word. People need to seek help before they reach breaking point to enable us, and other organisations, to put the safeguards in place to prevent crisis situations.”
Donations can be dropped off at the Bury Free Press office, in Kings Road, as well as Gatehouse, in Dettingen Way. A team from UK Power Networks visited the charity at its Dettingen Way base to help out with the packing of the hampers.
The appeal will finish on December 2.
