The society has filled 388 boxes with everyday items from its shops such as tea, coffee, jam and shower gel as well as festive biscuits, chocolate and crisps.
The boxes, which have been packed by employees, have been donated to the Salvation Army, Shelter Trust, Grace Trust, Freedom Church, Jersey Association of Youth and Friendship, Causeway Association and the Sanctuary Trust, which will then distribute them to those in need. A further 100 of the ‘Christmas in a Box’ packages are being donated in Guernsey.
Ell Hopton, community and sustainability manager at The Channel Islands Co-operative Society, said: ‘This is a new initiative from the Co-op and we are really pleased to make a difference to people who will appreciate a little extra help this Christmas.
‘There are many charities and organisations that go out of their way to support vulnerable people throughout the year and we know that 2020 has been an extremely challenging year for many.
‘This Christmas our aim is to provide boxes which bring a little festive cheer to those who need it.
‘Our teams have been working hard to collect the items and pack boxes and we hope they will make a difference to the Islanders who receive the treats.’
Salvation Army community centre manager Emily Smith added: ‘This Christmas is going to be different for all of us but, for many, it is also going to be extremely difficult as people find themselves financially struggling, out of work or unable to see friends and family due to the pandemic.
‘We are having to do Christmas a little differently than planned this year but will still be delivering a Christmas dinner to a number of Islanders on Christmas Day. The donation of festive goodies from the Co-op means a huge amount to the Salvation Army and will make a big difference to those financially struggling or lonely this winter. Having a treat kindly donated will make all the difference to their Christmas Day.’
The society is also donating hand sanitiser and thermometers to charities and community groups to help ensure that they can stay open over the festive period. To arrange a donation email sustainability@channelislands.coop.
