Salvation Army parcels given to needy families

Members from the Worthing Salvation Army spent the days leading up to Christmas packing the boxes at the Citadel in Crescent Road, Worthing. They have now been delievered to families in need who were referred to the Salvation Army by local agencies, social services, health services and church members who identified families who were struggling.

Ruth Justice co-ordinated the parcels for the eighth year.

She said: “We have had a great response this year.

“It’s been hard work and a very busy month but it is really rewarding. Social services collected the parcels and have delivered them to the families.”

Ruth said the appeal wouldn’t be possible without the help of the public and other charities and businesses.

Worthing Rotary supported the appeal as did Ham Manor Golf Club, Angmering, and Robert Luff estate agents.

Iceland in Worthing town centre held a four-week food collection and the Worthing Foodbank donated some of its surplus supplies.

This year, Parker Hannifin Manufacturing Ltd also joined the appeal and donated dozens of toys. And, the Salvation Army band’s Carol singing in Worthing town centre also helped top up the money to buy food and toys.

Ruth said: “It’s a real community effort and the public have also been amazing. They have been bringing in money and bags of food. Someone came in and didn’t want to be named but gave £170.”

The Salvation Army will join forces with other churches in Worthing in January to provide a hot meal, overnight accommodation, breakfast and showers for homeless people.