Helpers fill hundreds of hampers for those in need

Kind hearted power workers turned into Santa’s helpers when they sorted and packed 400 hampers in one day for those in need and were hailed as “priceless” by the charity.

Members of the property and consents department at the Bury St Edmunds office of UK Power Networks, were asked if they would help Gatehouse again this year as the number of hampers had increased to 700.

Stacey Tant, a trainee connections surveyor, said they have helped Gatehouse in the past and were asked to help again this year.

Fifteen members of the department rallied to the call and spent the day sorting all the tins and packets and then packing the hampers.

They even added to the day by donating several crates of food for those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

Despite such a labour-intensive job being hand work, Stacey said everyone enjoyed doing it and pulling together was good for their team morale.

“We do it to give back to the local community,” she added.

The team have already been booked for next year.

Amanda Bloomfield, the CEO of Gatehouse, said: “It’s been a great relief to me the last couple of years, to know that UK Power Networks will be sending volunteers to get the bulk of the Christmas hampers filled early.

“Each year the need grows for our services and it’s important to involve the local businesses and community in the work that we do here, so that they understand the difficulties that others face. 

 The team that come are knowledgeable, efficient, friendly yet professional and the help they give is priceless to a small charity such as ours.”

Amanda explained “We need over 3.5 tonnes of food to fill the hampers each year, this year more than most, donations have been fewer due to the cost-of-living crisis affecting everyone.

“We still need lots of cranberry sauce, stuffing, Christmas puddings and chocolates. Any help you can give, even just one tin is very much appreciated, to ensure that no one in genuine need is turned away this Christmas”