During the coronavirus emergency, many households in Stevenage are experiencing a sudden and unexpected loss or reduction in income or benefits.   In addition, necessary restrictions on movement can mean that some people who are isolated or alone can be in particular difficulty.  The town is rising to the challenge with many people seeking to help with food or cash donations or by giving their time.

Stevenage Borough Council is working in coordination with a range of charities to help people donate goods or cash  or volunteer time. #StevenageHelps provides a lot of useful information for donors, volunteers or people in need at this link

Stevenage Community Foodbank is experiencing much increased demand and donations of storable food such as tinned or dried food and toileteries  are needed so please consider donating.  (See here for suitable goods). The normal donation points in supermarkets etc are closed in line with government advice but Stevenage Football Club is helping and you can still donate storable goods, by calling 01438 222 222 to arrange safe collection.

Stevenage Haven for the homeless is seeking help  such as donations of canned and dried foods, sealed donations of fresh vegetables and frozen meats, hand soap, and hand sanitiser.  For more information on how you could help the Haven, call 01438 354 884.

Donations to help people in difficulty can also be made to Stevenage Community Trust  who are collaborating with the Borough Council to collect money.

People for People (Stevenage) have a donation site at this link.

Isolation can create particular difficulties for elderly or disabled people or those with mental health problems.  Stevenage Football club is managing Community Careline offering help to people in self-isolation.

If your mental health is suffering  or you just need some contact, Mind in Mid Herts is operating a telephone service for now.  Monday to Thursday 10 – 4pm.  Telephone: 01438 369216.  Email: admin@mindinmidherts.org.uk

Stevenage COVID-19 Mutual Aid is a Facebook site for Stevenage residents looking to help each other out during the emergency.   Their Facebook Page is here