Rediscover Church supports local families

Rediscover Church in Exeter is continuing its vital support for the local community this Christmas by providing hampers to individuals and families facing hardship due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

For the past eight years, the church has been distributing hampers to those in need, including individuals, couples, and families experiencing financial difficulties, unemployment, or personal challenges like bereavement.

This year, however, the demand has been more urgent than ever, as local charities, schools, and organisations report an increase in people needing help.

Even before the festive season kicked off, Rediscover Church was already being contacted by local charities and schools requesting assistance for struggling households.

Rising food prices, the increased cost of heating, and the added pressures of the school holidays have left many families in Exeter anxious about how they will manage through Christmas.

Messages received by the church highlight the tough realities facing these families. Many are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic groceries, with the weekly shop becoming a major financial strain. This is a trend that has only deepened since the start of the cost-of-living crisis.

In response, Rediscover Church has partnered with primary and secondary schools across the city, as well as organisations such as Home Start, YMCA Exeter, Young Carers, and Fearfree. These collaborations are vital in identifying families who would most benefit from the hampers. The church has also worked with Exeter City Council and local GP surgeries to ensure that those in greatest need are reached.

This year, 450 hampers will be distributed, each containing staple items such as pasta, beans, soup, tea, coffee, and cereal, along with festive treats like mince pies, sweets, and chocolates. The cost of each hamper is £30, largely funded by generous donations from the church congregation.

The hampers are not just about food; they are a reflection of the church’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.

Jason Ham, Operations Coordinator at Rediscover Church, explained: “Each year, we see the difference these hampers make to people’s lives. When we deliver them, we often meet individuals who are overwhelmed with gratitude, some even breaking down in tears. This year, we’ve met families who are so worried about finances, and they can hardly believe that a local church has taken the time to put together such a thoughtful gift.”

Ham went on to praise the church’s congregation, whose donations have been key to the success of the project. “Our congregation has always been incredibly generous, and this year has been no different. It’s a mammoth effort from the community - whether it’s food donations, financial contributions, packing, or delivering the hampers. We’re thankful for every single one of them.”

Rediscover Church’s Christmas Hamper Project is a testament to the power of community and faith in action, offering both practical support and a reminder that no one has to face the holiday season alone.

To donate to the Christmas Hamper appeal, click here.