Westminster: Caritas response to the Coronavirus

In light of reports (such as that in the Guardian Newspaper, ) of food bank stocks running low, Caritas Westminster is urging Catholic Communities not to forget the poor and vulnerable in this time of uncertainty over the Corona Virus.

Certain types of food and other essentials, seem to be disappearing from our supermarkets as people "panic buy". This may well include members of our own churches - people who would usually be selfless and generous, but have understandably become afraid in this uncertain time.

We are also concerned that, should people need to self-isolate, or should schools close, this will result in many people being unable to earn money (for example the self-employed or those in the "gig" economy.). Children who rely on school meals might also struggle. It is therefore vital that we step up our social action and our generosity - taking sensible precautions, but not shying away from volunteering and visiting - even if this is just to leave a food parcel on a doorstep.

Anyone wishing to find a local food bank or other social action project, to donate items, can contact their parish priest or email the Caritas Food Collective cfc@rcdow.org.uk

Anna Gavurin of the Caritas Food Collective says: "Whilst it is understandable that people want their cupboards well stocked in this uncertain time, we mustn't forget that hundreds of people rely on their local foodbanks - not just for food but also for hygiene items and toilet paper. We urge people to continue or even increase their generosity to foodbanks by donating items or money"

Whilst some supermarkets have responded to the high demand by restricting sales of some items it is unclear how charities such as homeless shelters, who need to buy in bulk, will be able to purchase enough items.

Caritas Westminster invites all Catholics to remember those in need, as we are called to do during the season of Lent. This might also include volunteering, for example as a driver to collect food from suppliers. Do get in touch cfc@rcdow.org.uk if you have some time to volunteer. As the needs develop we are looking for a bank of volunteers to call on.

LINKS

Find out more on the Caritas Food Collective website: www.caritasfoodcollective.org.uk/volunteering.php

Or log in to the Caritas Volunteer Service: www.caritasvs.org.uk/home.php and sign up.

For further thoughts on how to act with compassion during this crisis, take a look at these golden rules: www.stalbans.anglican.org/coronavirus/ written by the Anglican Bishop of St Albans.

The guidance for parishes from the Catholic Bishops Conference can be found here: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/38895