As we reach the run up to Christmas,many families in and around Bradford are feeling the effects of the economic crisis. Bingley Grammar School`s Mrs Greening has been encouraging her Yr10 form(and other forms in the year)if able,to donate some items for the Keighley Salvation Army food bank.During my interview with her,she suggested what items could be donated.

 

I began by asking why she decided to donate to Keighley. She replied,"Many of our students do come from the Keighley area,so rather than me raise money or get food to help and take it to where I live,it's not really helping the students I see on a daily basis." She went on to talk about how when she decided to do something about the food poverty in our area,she thought it might as well help families in need linked to school.

 

When asked about what people should donate,Mrs Greening explained that it`s mainly non-perishable items:pasta,rice,packet soups and cereals.She suggested,"things in tins,a tin of ham,a tin of spam,things that can make the protein in a meal,vegetables,some sweeter items - rice pudding,a packet of biscuits,bar of chocolate. Especially since it`s pre Christmas,she talked about `if you could spare a mini Christmas pudding,some Matchmakers or something like that that gives a little Christmas vibe." She went on to explain that some students in her form had brought in packaged socks,hats and gloves,things to make little teen parcels also.

 

When asked about the importance of school donations,she admitted that "This year we`re getting less donations than I have in previous years ; I think it's because everyone is feeling the pinch,no matter what background you come from." She continued "even as staff we`re thinking let's lower that heating and watch our bills this year."

 

So far,Mrs Greening has received 4 huge bags and the number of donations increases every day,but she would like to give a special shout out to one of the school support members,June Smith." She has given me a bag full of selection boxes for the teens,which I think gives it a little bit of a personal touch there for some of the teens in crisis."

 

The school collections are now closed,but if you would like to donate further,visit the Salvation Army website to find out how to donate directly,and to find your nearest drop off point.