THE generosity of local people meant several impoverished families were able to eat over Christmas – but the organisers say that it is an all-year-round need.

Over Christmas, Somerset Village Agent Izzy Silvester, of Watchet, secured a large number of vegetable and food boxes for free with donations from Somerset Local Food customers.

Izzy then worked with family support charity GetSet and the Salvation Army to deliver the much-needed boxes to families in Somerset. A local parent family support advisor to the schools helped to distribute them.

Two families in particular found themselves unable to buy food for Christmas after rent and all the bills were paid. The boxes they were provided with supported them at a time when it was needed most.

Samantha Seale, from the Salvation Army, said: “The big family I had a veg box for were really overwhelmed with the generosity of the company.

“They didn’t have a lot and when the box was given to them it created so much joy. Kind companies bring hope to those below the poverty line so from them a very big thank you.”

Another family that was helped had been – and is still – going through much heartache and trauma, with serious medical conditions affecting several members of the family.

This family that, like a lot of people, struggles to make the money stretch, especially with only the dad working, was thrilled to have some fresh fruit and veg delivered for Christmas week.

Jinny Uppington, Village Agent manager, said these small moments of generosity can make a positive influence on people’s lives.

But she added: “Whilst we are delighted with the generosity of local firms donating fruit and vegetables over Christmas, we want to highlight that there are people living in Somerset who desperately need this kind of support all year round.

“Food poverty is a real issue, not only in Somerset but across the country, and we hope by raising awareness of the amazing impact these boxes deliver, we can promote a sustainable supply going forward.”