GENEROUS donations have meant hundreds of Teignbridge residents will receive much-deserved festive hampers.

Thousands of pounds and items have been donated which have meant volunteers at HITS Foodbank have been able to put together into more than 200 hampers.

Donations have come from schools, churches, businesses and community groups.

Volunteers say this Christmas is the busiest since the charity was founded 12 years ago. They have worked evenings and weekends to prepare the hampers since an unexpected peak in demand.

HITS trustee Tricia Kirkby said: ‘The run up to Christmas is always an extremely busy time of year for our charity. However this year we have come close to logistical failure as we have been pushed to the limit. Nevertheless had we have witnessed amazing generosity.

‘We are so grateful to everyone who remembers us, we simply couldn’t operate without food donations, and are indebted to Sibelco who allow us to use a building rent-free.

‘This December HITS  again undertook our Christmas hamper and presents project. This project is only possible through the many volunteers and donors who contribute time and food to make it happen.’

Cllr David Cox said: ‘HITS trustees believe, passionately, that our foodbank must be about much more than applying a ‘sticking plaster’ with food packs to a problem.

‘Lack of food often indicates more fundamental problems and HITS want to help people address these issues. That is why HITS asks for referrals for ongoing help and works closely with Citizens Advice and other charities.

‘For example over £2 billion in benefits goes unclaimed, because people don’t know they are entitled to it, Citizens Advice can help people access these benefits. At HITS we seeks to help to raise people out of poverty, restore their dignity and provide a way out of their situation, fighting poverty, not sustaining it.’

Meanwhile, HITS is also involved with this year’s Christmas lunch campaign in Teignmouth.

Following the success of last year’s Covid-19 project taking a full festive lunch to those in need, Cllr Dave Matthews is spearheading the same this Christmas.

He said: ‘I am pleased to announce that our team of volunteers working alongside Kingsway Residents Association, HITS and the Alice Cross Centre will be back cooking for those in need this Christmas. A big thank you to Teignmouth Rugby Club for the loan of their kitchens and facilities to make this happen.

‘If you would like to volunteer your time to help deliver the meals to those in need locally or would like to refer a person in need please email [email protected].’

HITS normal opening times are Monday to Friday 10am-4pm. [email protected] or 01626 906371.