For the second year running, Newry Mourne and Down District Councils Community Co-ordination Hub, in partnership with Norbrook are distributing 250 fresh meals throughout the District on the six Fridays leading up to Christmas. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Oonagh Magennis visited the Norbrook factory on Friday 10 December 2021 to thank the Management and Staff for their generosity in donating and preparing the food.
The project was initially developed in 2019 as a response to the increased level of need among residents within the community due to COVID-19. It proved such a success that it has been repeated to bring Christmas cheer to local people again this year.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Oonagh Magennis said, “Christmas can be a difficult time for many in our community who are struggling financially or through isolation or health issues. Through this scheme, Norbrook staff are making an important contribution in helping people cope with their situation while spreading some Christmas cheer by providing a hot meal to individuals and local families. On behalf of the Council, I would like to express thanks to Norbrook and to our Community Sector partners, the Confederation of Community Groups, County Down Rural Community Network, Community Advice Newry Mourne and Down and the Strategic Stakeholder Forum for coordinating the Community response.”
Denise Collins, HR Director, Norbrook said, “We are delighted to partner with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council again this year, to reach out to those in greatest need within the community. We were humbled by the impact our programme had on so many families last year and knew the meals on wheels initiative would be a key element of our ‘WeCare@Christmas’ programme once again this year.”
One recipient of the meals last year, said, “Friday is the best day of the week, I so look forward to receiving my delicious dinner, as there is no fun cooking for one. I just love the wee chat on the doorstep with the volunteers too”. Another local resident said, “These meals are so enjoyable, and they really lift my spirits, particularly when I am not feeling up to cooking due to poor mental health”.
Community organisations throughout the District are playing their part by delivering the meals to the most vulnerable in our communities. Their staff and volunteers are taking the meals to people’s doorsteps to ensure that they reach those who most need them. For some recipients, the sight of a friendly face and the opportunity for a chat is almost as welcome as the meals themselves.
