The Leicester South Foodbank, which has been under great strain because of the Covid-19 crisis, will be getting a big helping hand thanks to a £1,500 grant from Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons.
Demand at the food banks has peaked close to four times the usual level since the lockdown began, with supplies of milk, tinned goods and other essential long-life foods running out. The usual donations from individuals and companies have not proved sufficient.
The food purchased with the Freemasons’ grant will go to the central warehouse in Wigston, from where it will be distributed across the city and county.
The grant from Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.
In response to the extraordinary need created by the coronavirus pandemic, Freemasonry is providing special funding of £2.75 million for projects helping those who are particularly affected by the virus. This extra money comes on top of the estimated £45 million given to charity every year by Freemasons.
Geoff Adams, Trustee of the Leicester South Food Bank, said:
“We’re very grateful to Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons for their generous grant, which will help us provide essential food to people who are in real need across Leicester & Leicestershire. The lockdown has caused serious difficulties for many families and this grant will make a real difference. ”