Category: Ballycarry

Supporting Our Community: Can You Donate Staple Items

Challenging Times

In these challenging times, many families in our community are facing difficulties putting food on their tables. As a beacon of hope and support, Whitehead Storehouse is reaching out to our local community to help alleviate hunger and provide essential nourishment to those who need it most. Your generosity can make a significant difference in the lives of families struggling to make ends meet.

Why Donate Staple Items

Staple items such as tuna, tinned tomatoes and tins of meat, form the backbone of our food assistance efforts. These items are versatile, nutritious, and in high demand among the families we serve. Your donations can help us create balanced and wholesome food packages that meet the diverse dietary needs of our community members. Whether it’s a hearty meal or a quick snack, your contribution ensures that no one goes hungry.

Can You Donate Food Items

If you are interested or willing to donate staple food, we are currently low on the following and would much appreciate donations of any of the following staple items. Even one item will help.

  • Instant Coffee
  • Tins of Tuna
  • tins of meat
  • morning juice,
  • cereals
  • biscuits

Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to ensuring that everyone has access to an an adequate food supply.

Where to Donate

You can drop off your donations at Whitehead Community Centre during their opening hours. Or buy an extra can or jar when shopping and leave it with Whitehead Spar or Islandmagee Spar, or drop a contribution into your local Church.

By donating staple items to Whitehead Storehouse you are not just providing food for individuals and families in Whitehead, Islandmagee and Ballycarry– you are offering hope, dignity, and support to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances.

Your kindness has the power to transform lives and build a stronger, more resilient community for us all. Thank you for your generosity and compassion. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.

Spread the Word

While we may not always see the problems, in every community, there are families who may be struggling to put food on the table due to various challenges they face. Whitehead Storehouse is a beacon of hope for these individuals and families. It’s essential to ensure that every family in need knows about the available help and support to ensure that no family goes hungry.

Many individuals or families may not be aware of the resources and assistance available to them through Whitehead Storehouse, especially those who may not often be on social media or the internet. By spreading the news, we can bridge this gap and connect those in need with vital support services. Every family deserves access to nutritious food, and by raising awareness, we can make a significant difference in improving their quality of life.

How You Can Help

Share Information

Please share this page and Whitehead Storehouse Facebook posts with your own contacts. If you can put up leaflets on a local bulletin board, please feel free to pick some up from Whitehead Community Centre during their opening hours.

If your organisation has contact with families who may be in need, let them know about Whitehead Storehouse’s services, maybe by giving them a leaflet (these can be obtained from Whitehead Community Centre) or pointing them to the Storehouse’s web page at www.whiteheadstorehouse.com.

In times of hardship, it’s essential to ensure that every family in our community knows where to turn for support. By spreading the news about the availability of help from the Whitehead Storehouse, we can extend a lifeline to those facing food insecurity and make a tangible difference in their lives. Together, let’s build a stronger, more supportive community where no family goes hungry. Thank you for joining us in this vital mission of compassion and solidarity.

Heartfelt Thank You to Our Lady of Lourdes Church for Their Generous Support

This post is to express deepest gratitude for the tremendous support that Our Lady of Lourdes Church has generously extended to Whitehead Storehouse, the local food bank. Your kindness and compassion have made a significant impact on the lives of those in need, especially during these challenging times and at this special time of year.

The outpouring of donations, including an abundance of food, toys, vouchers, and toiletries, is truly heartwarming. Your commitment to supporting our aim to alleviate hunger and provide essential items has made a difference in the lives of many individuals and families within our community.

The variety of non-perishable food items has not only stocked our shelves but has also brought smiles to the faces of those who may have otherwise gone without a warm meal. The toys provided have brought joy to countless children, creating precious memories during the holiday season that they will cherish for years to come.

Additionally, the inclusion of vouchers has allowed us to offer families the flexibility to choose items that best suit their individual needs. This thoughtful gesture empowers them to make choices that align with their preferences and dietary requirements, fostering a sense of dignity and respect.

The donation of toiletries is also immensely appreciated, as it addresses a basic yet often overlooked need. Your support in this regard contributes to the overall well-being of the individuals and families we serve.

It is through the support of all our community partners like Our Lady of Lourdes Church that we are able to make a meaningful impact. Your generosity reflects the spirit of compassion and unity that defines the true essence of the holiday season.

Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and for being a beacon of hope in our community. We are truly grateful for the partnership we share and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Wishing you and the entire congregation a joyous holiday season filled with love, peace, and the warmth of community.

Small School, Big Heart: Thanks to Ballycarry Primary School

In the heart of our community, there’s a small school with a remarkably big heart. Ballycarry Primary School, though modest in size, has demonstrated an immense capacity for generosity. This year, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to them for their heartwarming harvest donation to Whitehead Storehouse, the local food bank. Their act of kindness serves as a powerful reminder that the size of one’s heart is far more important than the size of one’s institution.

Harvesting Hope

Harvest is a season of giving thanks for the abundance of the land and sharing that abundance with those in need. It’s a time for communities to come together, regardless of their size, and support those who may be facing challenges.

The heart of Ballycarry Primary School’s donation was all about filling the shelves of our local food bank. Essential items such as canned goods and other cupboard staples found their way to the storehouse, ensuring that families in our community won’t go to bed hungry. Their thoughtful act of providing food has made a big difference to many.

The school’s generosity has done more than fill stomachs; it has nurtured the spirits of those who receive their donations. The act of giving has brought smiles and a sense of hope to individuals and families experiencing hardship.

Ballycarry Primary School’s donation has not only helped those in need but has also served as a valuable lesson to their students. It teaches the importance of compassion, generosity, and community care – lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.

Expressing Our Gratitude:

To the students, teachers, and staff of Ballycarry Primary School, we extend our sincerest thanks. Your small school has shown us that the size of your hearts is immeasurable, and your commitment to making a positive impact in our community is truly inspirational.

Harvesting Happiness: A Grateful Shout-out to Islandmagee Methodist Church

Spirit of Harvest

As autumn’s gentle touch transforms the landscape, the spirit of harvest envelops us, reminding us to count our blessings and share our abundance. This year, we are also immensely grateful to the Islandmagee Methodist Church for their outstanding generosity in donating their harvest collection to Whitehead Storehouse, the local food bank for Whitehead, Islandmagee and Ballycarry. Their act of kindness has not only enriched our community but has also kindled warmth in our hearts. In this blog post, we wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Islandmagee Methodist Church for their commitment to making a difference.

Essence of Harvest:

Harvest is a time of gratitude and sharing, a season when communities come together to celebrate the gifts of the land and ensure that none within their midst go hungry. The Islandmagee Methodist Church, through their remarkable act of kindness, embodies the true spirit of this season.

Strengthening Community Bonds:

Even more than tangible donations, the Islandmagee Methodist Church’s gift has fortified the bonds within our community. It has shown us that when we unite with open hearts and outstretched hands, we can build a compassionate and resilient community.

Expressing Our Gratitude:

To the members of the Islandmagee Methodist Church, we extend our deepest appreciation for your very generous harvest collection and for the retiring collection sum of £700. Your commitment to the values of charity, generosity, and community has made a tangible difference in the lives of those around you. Your donation has lightened the burdens of many, and your example inspires us all to be better neighbours.

Summer Economic Needs

Summer School Break

Summer is a great time for kids, no school, better weather, the chance to play outside all day with their friends. But as the school year comes to a close, it’s essential to remember that for many families, the end of classes also means the end of a reliable source of meals for their children.

During school time, many children may have a breakfast club at their school or receive free lunches, giving them nourishing food. However, when schools close for the summer, the responsibility falls on parents or guardians to provide meals, which can be difficult for those with limited financial resources.

At these times, it is helpful to contact your local food bank, Whitehead Storehouse. This covers Whitehead, Islandmagee and Ballycarry. Remember you can reach out and seek support from Whitehead Storehouse which is dedicated to helping families in food need, and committed to assisting families who may struggle to feed themselves or their children during the summer months.

This invaluable resource aims to bridge the gap and ensure that no child goes hungry during the break. By providing food aid and support, we can ease some of the financial burdens faced by families in difficult economic circumstances.

How to Access Support

If you find yourself in need of assistance getting food for your family during the summer, it’s important to know that help is just a request away. You can reach out to Whitehead Storehouse by various means, such as:

  • Phone: 0759 621 3763
  • Facebook page and messenger – Facebook search for Whitehead Storehouse
  • Email – whiteheadstorehouse@gmail.com

Maintaining Confidentiality and Dignity

It’s natural to feel hesitant or embarrassed when seeking help, but it’s important to remember that everyone faces challenges at some point in life. Whitehead Storehouse is committed to treating all requests with utmost confidentiality and respect. We understand the difficulties faced by families and aim to provide support without judgment, ensuring that you can access the assistance you need while maintaining your dignity.

Conclusion

No parent should have to worry about their children going hungry during the summer months. If you find yourself in a situation where providing meals becomes difficult due to financial constraints, Whitehead Storehouse is here to lend a helping hand. Reach out for support and rest assured that you will find a compassionate and understanding team ready to assist you. Together, we can ensure that your children have access to the nourishment they need to grow and thrive.

Donations To Whitehead Storehouse

Christmas 2022 Donations

We have been asked what donations can be made to the Storehouse, to help others out over Christmas. Here is a list of items that would be useful for the Storehouse to receive for Christmas deliveries, though these will be made on Thursday 16th December 2022.

https://www.whiteheadstorehouse.com/

Image by Ria Sopala from Pixabay

Shloer, dilute juice and morning juice.

Jams, marmalade and peanut butter.

Tins of custard, rice and fruit.

Tins of pork, ham, corned beef and Fray Bentos pies.

Tins of potatoes, carrots and peas.

Christmas puddings, chocolate puddings, mince pies and shortbread.

Selection boxes and tubs of sweets.

Toilet rolls kitchen rolls washing up liquid, soap.

Vouchers for the local shops or supermarkets.

If you feel you would like to donate to Whitehead Storehouse, please leave your donations at Whitehead Spar, Whitehead Community Centre or any Whitehead Church.

All donations are gratefully received and are used to help those in economic difficulty in Whitehead, Ballycarry and Islandmagee.

New Year 2023

Even if you cannot donate in time for Christmas 2022, there will still be an ongoing need for help in 2023, so please feel free to make donations at a later date if you wish.

Thank you everyone, for all the help you have provided in 2022.

Thank You Ballycarry Primary School

Many thanks to the pupils, parents, carers and teachers at Ballycarry Primary School who donated non-perishable items to Whitehead Storehouse to help those in difficult circumstances. All these items are gratefully received and will be used to help people in need this winter in Ballycarry, Whitehead and Islandmagee with an emergency food parcel.

https://www.whiteheadstorehouse.com/
Autumn is a time of harvest and gratitude for food to last through the coming winter until the new growth.
https://www.whiteheadstorehouse.com/
Whitehead Storehouse is very grateful to all those who donate to help them provide emergency help to local people in need.
https://www.whiteheadstorehouse.com/

Check Your Hearing

As part of Positive Ageing Month, the Royal National Institute for the Deaf (RNID) has asked us to post some information on hearing, including a link to an online hearing test, plus information in help with hearing aids.

Or try an online test. This is not a full test but will let you check whether you need one.

Here are some more useful links on hearing from the RNID

Some info on checking your hearing aid.

Contact RNID

If you (or someone close to you) are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus and need free confidential and impartial information and support, contact RNID. We are open 8:30am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday.

You can

Chat to us on the RNID website at www.rnid.org.uk
Call: 0808 808 0123
Email: contact@rnid.org.uk
Book a BSL video call via our partners at Sign Live: create an account at the SignLive website or download the SignLive app for Android or the SignLive app for iOS
SMS/text: 07360 268988
Relay UK: 18001 then 0808 808 0123
Write: RNID, Brightfield Business Hub, Bakewell Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6XU

Thank You Islandmagee Methodist Church

Islandmagee Methodist Church Harvest Festival Donations

A huge thank you to all those who donated at the Islandmagee Harvest Festival Service. The donations have been passed to Whitehead Storehouse, the independent food bank for Whitehead, Islandmagee and Ballycarry and will be kept safe, ready for emergency food supplies to be provided for those in need in the local area.

We all know that food costs have risen steeply in the last few months and that heating has become even more costly, with oil, gas and electricity prices rising sharply. For those already in difficult economic situations, the coming winter will be even harder, with some people facing thorny choices between heating and eating. Whitehead Storehouse is very grateful for all donations that will allow us to help those in short term crisis with emergency food packs that will help them over a difficult patch.

UPDATE

A very generous financial donation has also been made from the Harvest Collection by Islandmagee Methodist Church. Very gratefully received. Thank you very much.

https://www.whiteheadstorehouse.com/

Thank You Methodist Church Whitehead

The Methodist Church, Whitehead, Minister, Stephen Woods, held its harvest festival service on Sunday 25 September 2022, with all donations going to Whitehead Storehouse. The congregation and visitors provided a fantastic response to the call for non-perishable food to help those who would otherwise go hungry this winter. The pictures below show the amazing contributions that were transported to Whitehead Storehouse.

These will all be used to help those at economic disadvantage in the Whitehead area.

Many thanks to all those who donated or helped in any way.

UPDATE

More bags of food have since been received from Whitehead Methodist Church plus a very generous financial donation from a member of the Church, plus an offer of white goods.

Many thanks for the additional help. It will all be put to good use.

 

https://www.whiteheadstorehouse.com/