This is a text-only version of an article first published on Tuesday, 19 January 2021. Information shown on this page may no longer be current.
An Aylesbury church's compassionate response to the coronavirus pandemic has landed them a Proud of Bucks award .
In April 2020, Church on Berryfields set up a new distribution point of the Aylesbury Foodbank .
They hoped to help meet the growing needs of their local community in a time of crisis.
Revd Gareth Lane commented,
"We set up a new community foodbank distribution point in April during the pandemic, in partnership with the Trussell Trust, to provide a much-needed service to the local community.Many local people have helped, donating non-perishable food goods and other items. "
The Aylesbury foodbank opened in 2016 and has since provided over 70,000 meals to those in need.
A part of the Trussell Trust, the foodbank operates in seven sites across the town, run by churches and community groups. As a young church, Berryfields don't have their own building.
However, their local Esquires Coffee shop stepped up and agreed to let them run the foodbank from their premises.
The church say it is a reminder that building good relationships within the community can often result in greater impact.
As a result of their award, Church on Berryfields were also sent a letter from their local MP.
MP Rob Butler wrote,
"I know how important these centres are for local people of acute need, and I admire your collaboration with local businesses to support vulnerable residents through this difficult period. "
You can donate to the Aylesbury foodbank online or visit Esquires Coffee in Aylesbury on Thursdays from 2-3. 30pm. If your church has a good news story to share, let our communications team know.
Diocese of Oxford - Revd Gareth Lane of Church on Berryfields speaks to BBC Three Counties Radio