Newton Abbot’s scientists and engineers of the future have set up and run their own market stall to support people who are homeless or on the poverty line this Christmas.
Students from South Devon University Technical College (UTC) collected donations on their stall in the town’s Market Hall for THAT FoodBank, a charity that works to alleviate food poverty throughout Teignbridge.
The students had the idea for the market stall as part of South Devon UTC’s community and wellbeing programme to not only give back to the local community, but also to build their own self-esteem and confidence. Their aim is to provide enough goods to support 10 families this Christmas and the generous donations they received have moved them towards this target.
Claire Plumb, Principal of South Devon UTC, said: “We recognise how important it is to support those who are less fortunate than us in our local community, particularly around Christmas as it can be such a lonely time for some. Our volunteer students did an excellent job on the market stall, collecting donations for the incredible THAT FoodBank who do so much for individuals and families. We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who visited our stall in the Market Hall and made donations that really will make a difference to people’s lives this Christmas.”
Claire continued: “South Devon UTC’s values are high on the school agenda and we are aiming to nurture consideration and caring for others within our curriculum. We hope that our young people will recognise the difference we can make to those who do not have the opportunities in life that we have.”
THAT FoodBank provides a variety of services for individuals and families in Teignbridge who are experiencing financial difficulties. The charity can provide food packs, which can include essential toiletries, and home start packs which provide household goods such as bedding, crockery and cleaning products. Based at Queensway House in Newton Abbot, THAT also offer a friendly advice service where visitors can pop in for a chat.
Lin Wooldridge, Chair of THAT FoodBank, commented: “We are delighted at THAT food bank to have young people involved with helping us. It is so important for the next generation to learn about hardship and the role of charities. Their contribution will be a great help with our work especially at this busy time of year. We are supporting many families and individuals who are struggling to cope, and we are able to supply food, toiletries, sanitary items and lots of Christmas goodies and toys.”
South Devon UTC is currently recruiting students for the 2019/20 academic year. Young people with a flair for science, engineering, technology and the environment due to start Y10 or Y12 in September 2019 should contact the college as soon as possible for more information. The next South Devon UTC Open Evening takes place on Thursday 7th February 2019, between 5pm – 7pm. Register your interest to attend the event by calling 01626 240201.
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