The third annual Festive Food Pantry, hosted by Chartwell House by Boutique Care Homes in partnership with the Parish of St Laurence and Newington Primary School, has provided vital help for Thanet families
The food pantry event was held on Saturday (December 14) at St Christopher’s Church in Newington and provided help for more 65 families on the day.
Thanks to generous contributions by residents, businesses, and organisations, Chartwell House was also able to make a significant donation of food items to Newington Primary School.
Supporting some 700 families, the school’s commitment to ensuring no child goes hungry was bolstered by the contribution. During the Christmas and New Year holidays, the school will provide breakfast and a cooked lunch for 93 children over four days, as well as continuing their regular provision of food parcels for families in need.
Last year, every tin donated was used and this year’s contributions are already making a tangible difference.
The generosity of the community was evident in the volume of donations received. Around 900 food items were collected, ranging from tinned goods, pasta, and festive treats to crates of fresh produce including tomatoes and peppers.
The event also raised an additional £151.73 to support St Christopher’s Church in assisting local families throughout the year.
Donations came from organisations including Boutique Care Homes, Dunelm Broadstairs, Unison Thanet, Waitrose, Thanet Earth, New Life Wills, Tesco’s Manston, Crossroads Care Kent and the Parish of St Laurence. Families and team members from Chartwell House Care Home also played a crucial role, dedicating their time and resources to ensure the event’s success.
Judith Andrews, Anna Chaplain at St Laurence in Thanet, said: “Whatever we do as the Church with Chartwell House is always a joy. Now after our third Festive Food Pantry, I can’t believe the generosity from so many people, supermarkets, and retailers in Thanet.
“But none of this would happen without the incredible team at Chartwell House – not only looking after their residents like family, but the welcome they give to the Church and the support to the community and school of Newington is just amazing. It’s really difficult to put what it means into words – I can only say thank you from the bottom of my heart!”
This year’s event was led by Jude Coveney, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House. Jude said: “The Festive Food Pantry has become such an important part of what we do at Chartwell House. It’s incredible to see how the community has come together to support those in need.
“Knowing that our efforts will make a real difference to so many families, especially through the donation to Newington Primary School, is truly humbling. I’m so proud to be part of a team that cares so deeply for its community.”
Diane Collins, Home Manager at Chartwell House, added: “The generosity and support we’ve received for this year’s Festive Food Pantry have been nothing short of inspiring. This event is a true reflection of the values we hold at Chartwell House – compassion, community, and care.
“A huge thank you to everyone who contributed and made this year’s pantry a success. Together, we’ve helped brighten Christmas for so many families, and that is something we can all be proud of.”
As the Festive Food Pantry continues to grow in its impact, Chartwell House remains committed to supporting its community and fostering partnerships that make a difference. Plans are already underway to build on the momentum for next year’s event.
