Sunderland College students have donated food and essentials to Sunderland Food Bank to support those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A collection drive was organised by Jade Reed who called on her fellow Access to Higher Education students and staff to contribute items such as tinned foods, cereal, toiletries and household cleaning products.
The donations were passed to Sunderland Food Bank to be handed out at the charity’s distribution points located across Wearside.
Jade said: “I am proud of the way everyone is coming together to protect and support each other during the coronavirus pandemic.
“I felt like I wanted to help our local community more, so decided to collect food and toiletries for the vulnerable during this difficult time.
“I have always been passionate about helping others as not only does it lift your own spirits, but it makes you realise that any of us could face difficult times at some point in our lives.
Jade was blown away by the response to her appeal, with dozens of items donated over the space of two days.
She adds: “I was receiving parcels every single day from friends, family, and even strangers. It was truly heart-warming to see people’s generosity outweighing all of the bad going on in the world right now.
“I was once told to give and care for others, not for yourself but because you never know what you will face in the future or what help you may need. This is something I have always remembered, and it is so true.”
The collection comes after Sunderland College donated food and beverages from its Bede Campus refectory to the food bank following the move to remote teaching and learning during lockdown.
Lecturer Samantha Stirzaker, added: “I am immensely privileged to be able to assist Jade with her idea to help the community and those who are experiencing difficulties in these challenging times.
“Our learners embraced the idea and Jade managed to collect a vast amount of donations for Sunderland Food Bank. We are so proud of her.”
If you require immediate help from Sunderland Foodbank, call Citizen’s Advice free on 0808 2082138 or 0300 3301194. To make a donation, visit www.sunderland.foodbank.org.uk/.
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98% of our students progress to a positive destination
(*Destination data for Sunderland College students aged 16-18, academic year 2017/18).
Our achievement rates are well above the national average.
We are the College of the Year.
(*Top college nationally for BTECs, Pearson 2019)
100% of our HND and HNC students progressed to employment or further study.
(*Destination data, academic year 2016/17, HNC 19+)
We have recently invested £50 million in our facilities.
