Kind-hearted children from St John Vianney Primary School, Hartlepool have jumped on-board St Cuthbert’s Care’s 5p Bus project, donating hampers full of Christmas goodies, to those suffering hardship across the North East.
The 5p Bus is our mobile distribution service, offering clothing and other essential items to some of the region’s poorest communities, for just 5p. Launched by the charity in 2008, the project operates five days a week and pays regular visits to homeless shelters, children’s centres and community projects in socially deprived areas. With the recent addition of a second bus, the project can now visit around 90 venues, and reach over 2,000 needy people, every month.
Children from St John Vianney Primary School felt compelled to support the project and decided to make up hampers containing such treats as Christmas puddings, sweet mince pies and festive chocolates. John Hardy, Head-teacher at St John Vianney School said:
“Our children and families respond to charity appeals of all types, but they have a real interest in the work of St Cuthbert’s Care. They felt that this year they wanted to help in a more direct way, by giving an item they themselves enjoy eating and would like at Christmas time, so they have put together hampers to share with others in the North East.”
Ken Hitcham, Development Manager for the 5p Bus added:
“I think it is fantastic that the children have decided to support our project and donate boxes full of festive treats. Christmas is notoriously a happy and joyous occasion, however, that’s not always the case for those who have little or no money, so these hampers really will help spread a little bit of happiness this Christmas.”