Our Ipswich retirement community gives back to local families
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, many people in Ipswich find themselves unable to afford essentials for themselves and their families. FIND estimates that year on year, the demand for food parcels has risen significantly, with the charity now distributing an average of 120-150 packages weekly. This vital community resource has worked tirelessly for over 30 years to provide free food parcels and personal care items to people in Ipswich and the surrounding areas—and relies entirely on donations.
Homeowners and the on-site team at Thomas Wolsey Place, a McCarthy Stone Retirement Living development for over 60s, collected hundreds of items including food, cereal, dried goods and household essentials like tin foil and soap in the hope that they can help those who are struggling.
David Meachem, Divisional Sales Director for McCarthy Stone, says, “Supporting the communities close to our developments is a key focus at McCarthy Stone, and we are delighted to be able to support those most in need this new year as we know this can be an extremely difficult time for families. FIND is a fantastic community charity and it’s clear to see the hard work that goes into helping local families and individuals, week after week.”
Maureen Reynal, MBE, founder of FIND, says, “We can’t thank McCarthy Stone enough for their support and generosity. With this donation we can continue to distribute essential food packages and other basic items to families in Ipswich, as well as look at other ways to help residents over the start of this new year. Given the cost-of-living crisis, we’ve seen an increase in the number of people seeking support this January and expect even more in February. Without donations from our community, schools, churches, military and businesses like McCarthy Stone, we wouldn’t be able to sustain the food bank, meaning many families would have no choice but to go without.”
