Christmas is a time to be thankful and celebrate the blessings that have been bestowed upon us both individually and as a community.
A blessing is a fitting way to describe the work of Lisa Marie and the Bearsted and Downswood Angels, who started out as an initial four week trial basis, now fifteen months later are a vital part of the community assisting those who need us at their worst time.
CommunityAd checked in with Lisa Marie who wants to give thanks to the community that has been so kind to her and the beneficiaries of the Angels:
“We are overwhelmed each week by donations from the local community. Week in and week out they support us in supporting the community by taking food donations to The Cavendish Bearsted. We collect from there each Friday to ensure we have enough to deliver to local families in need during these uncertain times.
“We have been assisting families across Bearsted, Downswood and Grove Green with shopping essentials but also weekly fresh items which we could not do without the support of local businesses.
“The Cavendish in Bearsted is our drop off point for contributions. Tania and Jules and all of the girls are amazing, we truly would not be where we are today helping as many people as we do without them.
“Marino’s Fish Bar Bearsted, Sam and Donda supply us Angels with a fresh sack of potatoes each week. Which is a life-saver for some. They have been vital in helping the families we support.
“Crouch Butchers in Bearsted, every Friday evening supply us with fresh cakes, bread, pastries and pies. They are incredible and so generous towards our families.
“Watts Farms supply us with a variety of fresh food every Friday for deliveries on Saturdays. From cheese, meats, fruit and vegetables.
“Invicta Court Care Home supply us each week with specially made brownies, they have also created fundraisers for us and most recently donated all of their harvest festival collections.
“Amanda, the founder of Making a Difference to Maidstone, is a true supporter of the Angels and every Saturday morning we attend MADM where their manager Troy supplies us with fresh food from M&S and also share donations they have received.
“The Angels themselves are incredible, although they wish to stay anonymous they week in and week out dedicate their time, energy and provide a caring service to our families.
“We feel honoured and valued by our community and we could not do what we do without community support. We are supported by so many it’s so hard to name everyone individually but each donation is so important to us.
“We will soon be having a fundraiser for Christmas to help those in need. The Angels are here for you if you need them during this coming winter.”