With the help of a grant for £2,464 from the Community Foundation's Coronavirus Emergency Support Fund, Eyres Monsell Club for Young People has been able to provide hundreds of emergency food parcels to those most in need in the local community.

Eyres Monsell is in the top 10% of socially deprived areas in the city with many of its residents living in poverty and has been particularly affected by the Coronavirus outbreak.

As a result, EMCYP is responding to the major increase in need for their support with the help of a local volunteer force. They have worked in partnership with Fareshare Midlands, which distributes surplus food to charities and community groups across the region. EMCYP have been busy packing and delivering healthy food boxes directly to vulnerable residents' front doors. Food parcels are also available for members of the community to collect, together with information packs on how to access further services if needed.

Keanan Bartram at EMCYP said: "This funding has enabled us to run a community food parcel project in partnership with Fareshare. We have been able to provide 80-100 food parcels each week to members of the community who are isolated, shielding or vulnerable.

"The funding from the community foundation has made this happen, with a project coordinator and purchase of vital essentials each week.

"It truly has made a difference in the community of Eyres Monsell. We are based in one of the most socially deprived areas of South Leicester, so by providing this service we have had a big impact on many families".

EMCYP offers opportunities to engage young people of all abilities and encourage them to achieve their maximum potential. They provide young people with a place to go, something to do and someone to talk to.