'It can happen to anybody': Chesterfield church gives out free food boxes to struggling families during Covid-19

The Grace Box project by the town’s Grace Chapel church was launched when the pandemic first hit back in March and the place of worship gave hundreds of free food boxes away to help those worst affected by the pandemic.

Grace Chapel have now relaunched the project in Chesterfield in conjunction with Christian charity Love Thy Neighbour and the Government who have vowed to pay for half of all the food that is bought and then donated to people in need.

Families which are struggling to make ends meet are encouraged to pick up a free Grace Box every Tuesday between 10am to 12pm at outside the chapel on 89 New Street in the town centre.

Project officer, David Maggs, who is helping to launch the free food campaign, said: "We are just hoping to reach out and help people at this time, quite a lot of people have lost their jobs and are struggling financially.

"Sometimes people can claim benefits but sometimes people fall through the gaps and they might have their money stopped or they have to wait for Universal Credit.

"Some people are really struggling while they wait for payment and don't even have enough money to go shopping.

"Grace Box is here to help people out and tide people over at this difficult time.”

The 51-year-old is concerned many parents who are finding it challenging to feed their children are put off from reaching out for help for fear of embarrassment.

He added: "A lot of people were in jobs that they thought were very secure have suddenly become insecure and people probably never thought they would never lose them.

"I would just say, don't be embarrassed, a lot of people can be in this position if they lose their job and they don't have any savings.

"It can happen to virtually anybody so they could end up in that situation so there is nothing really to be embarrassed about.”

Anyone who is in need of food but is unable to attend the collection on Tuesday should ring Grace Chapel on 07593331294.

Derbyshire eBay millionaires offer top tips to budding entrepreneurs

Hopes to 'build something better' at Chesterfield park after dangerous play area removed

£500,000 boost to help arts and culture in Derbyshire Dales survive pandemic

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.