Christmas food and gifts given to needy by Tower Hamlets Council
Tower Hamlets Council collected gifts and food to give to those living in poverty. Picture: Ron Jeffries - Credit: Archant
More than 1,000 donations of festive food and gifts were handed to those living in poverty in Tower Hamlets.
In its biggest ever appeal, the council had been collecting donations from staff across its offices for three weeks.
The gifts will be distributed on Monday, December 23 by charities including, Bow food bank, Look Ahead and Hestia refuges, Beyond the Street's Programme and First Love Foundation. `
Staff at Tower Hamlets, which has one of the highest child poverty rates in the country, donated chocolates, mince pies and dried goods, while gift donations included toiletry sets, children's toys and books.
The First Love Foundation will also be hosting two special events in the borough where residents in need can pick up Christmas presents and hampers and enjoy a Christmas dinner.
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Mayor John Biggs said: "Christmas can be particularly difficult for those in our community who are more vulnerable. Food poverty and the rise of people using food banks is sadly a very real issue across London but we're working hard to support our residents. I want to thank all our staff and volunteers who made this donation drive a success."
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