EMERGENCY food supplies are on their way to vulnerable residents thanks to a new Community Hub set up by Rugby Borough Council (RBC).
The food parcels will be delivered to residents who have been instructed by the NHS to stay at home for 12 weeks because of medical conditions, and other residents who have been assessed as needing urgent support.
The service has been put in place for residents who cannot source their own supplies and do not have family, neighbours or other support available from their communities. It will continue throughout the travel and social restrictions that are in place to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
The hub will also provide social and emotional support, while residents in financial hardship will be referred to Rugby Foodbank.
Council leader Coun Seb Lowe said: “I know the restrictions on going out and meeting people are having a significant impact, and this is being felt particularly strongly among residents who were already among our most vulnerable.
“Rugby Borough Council made it clear at the beginning of this pandemic that we are committed to building communities and supporting vulnerable residents.”
He said the council would put people in touch with neighbourhood support groups, and had compiled a directory of businesses that can deliver food to residents at home.
“But where there is no family nearby and these other support mechanisms are not available, we will step in,” he added.
“Our team has spent the past few days preparing and will soon start packaging and preparing food parcels for delivery.
“These members of council staff have redeployed from across the council to provide this service, and I am grateful for their long hours, hard work and commitment to the communities they serve.”
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/fooddelivery for information on businesses which can deliver food supplies, or to add a business to the directory.
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/communitysupport for information on neighbourhood groups which can support residents in their area.
Residents who have received a letter from the NHS and must isolate for 12 weeks should call the number on the letter to register for food and medical support.
Those who have no other means of support can call Rugby Borough Council on 01788 533533 for further advice and assistance.
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/coronavirus for general advice on financial support, changes to council services and support for businesses.
