YMCA's daily challenges

Many churches are celebrating harvest at the moment - and it is a time to reflect on the goodness of God in providing for our needs throughout the year. At YMCA we are faced with a daily challenge of providing food and toiletries to young people who come through our doors with nothing

We have a food cupboard which is completely empty at the moment - and we would dearly love to fill. A couple of churches have offered to collect for us at their harvest services, but I wondered if there are other Christian people in the town who would like to give for this cause. Below is a list of foods which would be really useful for us - anybody can drop a parcel in to our North Quay offices between 9and 5pm Monday to Friday

suggestions for food for YMCA store cupboard:

Any long life food with a good shelf life welcomed – in small sizes please as these are for individuals

Packets

Pasta, noodles, rice, pasta with sauce, savoury rice, pot noodles, couscous, sugar, instant mash, tea, soup (cup of soup varieties), biscuits, instant whip, individual puddings e.g. long life yoghurt, jelly, steamed puddings, savoury biscuits and crackers

Boxes

Cereals, tissues, tea bags

Cartons

Long life milk, individual sized fruit juice

Treats

Chocolate bars, sweets, individually wrapped cakes, chocolate biscuits, crisps (multi packs are good)

Jars

Hot chocolate, coffee, sauces e.g. pasta, curry, jam, peanut butter etc

Tins

Soup, baked beans, beans and sausages, spaghetti, chilli, ravioli, macaroni cheese, peas, sweetcorn, stewing steak, mince, chicken in sauce, tuna fish, steak and kidney puddings and pies

Toiletries

Deodorant, all in one shampoo and conditioner, shower gel, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, tampons

Also we have increased in need for suitable accommodation for young people. The number we now accommodate is 68 - 26 of those being under 18. If anybody has a spare room and would like to work with us please could they contact us on our office number of 01493 854162 - or pop in our offices for a chat at 64 North Quay

Lastly - a new YMCA shop has opened on the market place. Some of the profits for this are ploughed back into our work locally. So can I ask people to support, by giving (much needed), volunteering or shopping there!