Derry City supporters take part in vital food bank push at Long Tower Youth Club

The event, which took place on Saturday at Long Tower Youth Club, will assist the local foodbank with much-needed supplies to support people in need across the city.

Speaking after the event, Derry City FC supporter and organiser Caolán Doherty, said the event was hugely successful.

He commented: “I want to thank everyone who supported the event on Saturday - we are overwhelmed by the generosity of the local community.

“This has been a challenging year for everyone as we fight-back against the deadly pandemic which has changed our lives.

“We felt it was important to play our part in assisting the fantastic community response and getting support out to people across our communities.”

Foyle Foodbank has provided a vital lifeline for many families in the city throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Last month it provided 193 three-day emergency food supplies to people in crisis in the city.

People can donate to the foodbank and help local families at the following website https://foyle.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/donate-money/

Dozens of people dropped off bags of tinned food and fruit, breakfast cererals, non-perishable ultra-high temperature (UHT) treated milk, teabags, pasta, rice, biscuits, sanitary products and toiletries at Anne Street at the weekend.

It was another example of the ‘meitheal’ spirit of mutual aid coming to the fore in Derry throughout this ongoing health and economic crisis that has exacerbated poverty for many people.

Mr. Doherty said the generosity shown by those involved in the food drive at the weekend was uplifting and would make a real difference to struggling families.

“I would like to thank Derry City FC, the volunteers who helped on the day, the staff at Long Tower and all those who made donations.

“Through your generosity and support, we can help make a real and visible difference to people’s lives,” said Mr. Doherty after the community effort on Saturday.