Labour councillors are welcoming a community event taking place this Wednesday, hoping to spread some festive joy for families in and around Acomb.

Holy Redeemer Church on Boroughbridge Road will host a ‘take as you feel’ event involving Christmas gifts and food for those most in need.  The idea blossomed from the regular food bank held there by organiser and local resident Tracey Deacon.  Tracey was shortlisted for Good Neighbour of the Year award at the last York Community Pride Awards.

Labour’s Acomb councillor Katie Lomas is full of praise for the scheme. “Tracey has done an amazing job since setting up the foodbank in Acomb,” she said, “and this charity giveaway event has turned into a massive event due to the generosity of so many people in the area.  It shows what community spirit there is and Tracey has been central to making it happen.  I’d encourage people to get down to the church and see what’s in store”.

Cllr. Lomas approved Acomb Ward funding to help with the costs of running the event, such as paying for insurance.  After running the food bank from one room in the church, this event has grown so much that it is taking over the main part of the church, and will involve volunteer support from York CVS and Good Gym, to help manage queuing and a one way system, as well as maintaining social distancing.

“I’m so chuffed with how this event has grown into something so big,” Tracey added, “and how much it is going to help my local community.  And it’s not just for kids, there will be giveaways for adults too.

“We don’t want to have to take any of what we’ve collected home, so I’d encourage everyone to get down to the church between 12pm and 3pm this Wednesday, and take a little something, whether to brighten up your Christmas or just to make it a little bit easier.  We know lots of people are struggling with what’s been going on, and this is to give a helping hand to those that really need it”.