By Monica Chard
So, maybe you are starting the new year with a resolution to “do something”, to “make a difference, “to meet some more local people”. Well, maybe this will inspire you, because you are needed!
Sunbury Neighbours met recently, ostensibly for their first AGM for 2 years, but really this was a chance for so many volunteers to actu-ally meet each other in person. Many have been voices or names to each other. The pan-demic forced this local charity to reinvent itself. Although still fulfilling the role of sup-porting those in our community who need transport to key appointments, or may need prescriptions picking up, the group found themselves in need themselves! Many of the volunteers were in the over 70’s age bracket and therefore requested by the government to shield. But the younger age group was either losing their jobs or furloughed and they need-ed a purpose. Here was the new generation of Sunbury Neighbour volunteers. Some dipped in and out, some have remained.
During those months the community spirit soared. Joining forces with London Irish and also Surplus to Supper, the group was able to visit 150-200 households weekly with food boxes. Chairman, Andy Osborne is also chair-man and CEO of the Surplus to Supper chari-ty, which created meals from donated surplus food. Boxes were packed at the London Irish Hazelwood centre and some of the strapping lads would join in delivery of boxes to some very grateful locals. They were delighted to be able to give something back to the commu-nity and brought many a smile to recipients.
The crazy period of lockdowns during the pandemic , when we really didn’t know what we were dealing with, gave volunteers a pur-pose and an uplift. This was real team work and they were making such a difference to the lives of some of the isolated in the communi-ty.
The AGM showed that cash reserves of Sun-bury Neighbours were most definitely down. During the pandemic cash was not changing hands. Usually people are asked to give a cash donation but it was not considered prudent to accept cash during the 20/21 period. Sunbury Neighbours is a self funding charity. Since it’s inception in 1995 it has had a more than healthy bank account and at the end every year it has been able to make a sizeable dona-tion to local causes. The good times will re-turn.
So how can you help? Well Sunbury Neigh-bours is always looking for drivers. Maybe you could spare an hour or two a week? Or just the odd trip if you don’t have much time. Journeys are local and your expenses are paid. You just need the right attitude and a car. You will be doing something wonderful for your community. Maybe one day you will need the service yourself. It is groups such as this which make Sunbury such a special place to live. If you can spare a little time, do get in touch:
sunburyneighbours@yahoo.com or you can call 07956 822546 (mornings only between 9-12)