HUNDREDS of emergency food parcels were handed out to children in north east Essex every week during the pandemic, figures have revealed. Since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis there has been an unprecedented number of families in need having to use food banks. Latest data published by the Trussell Trust shows a record 2.5 million packages were distributed by its network of food banks across the UK in 2020-21. During this period, the charity handed out 13,513 emergency food parcels in Colchester, with 5,815 of them - more than 100 a week - going to children. In Tendring, volunteers gave out 3,635 packages, of which 1,384 went to children.
Local Heroes: Help us find and reward our ultimate Community Champion TODAY’S Gazette is a celebration of our Community Champions. Since the end of January, we’ve been sharing stories - based on your wonderful nominations - and hailing the kind, selfless endeavours of people across north Essex. From volunteer drivers and key workers to those responsible for food and clothing supplies, we think they are truly brilliant. They are pillars of our community and we thank them for their extraordinary efforts during an extraordinary 12 months. Everyone featured below is a marvel, but now, just for added fun, you have a chance to vote for your ultimate local hero.