Going the extra mile for those in need

Hartlepool-based Miles For Men – which is dedicated to raising funds for those affected by cancer, including through its annual 5km sponsored run – threw its weight behind the Hub from the start.

To date the Hub – which operates from Community Hub Central - has delivered more than 2,000 food parcels, 1,700 prescriptions and 2,800 hot meals to those who are self-isolating or otherwise unable to leave their homes during the current emergency.

That’s down to the dedication of all the Hub’s volunteers from a host of organisations – including Miles For Men, which has drawn on its own existing support network of volunteers to help the cause.

“Miles For Men were delighted to sign up to support the Hub and I’m really proud of the contribution which our dozen-strong all female team of volunteers has made,” said Miles For Men founder Micky Day. “They are truly amazing and I would like to thank them so much!

“All our volunteers work normal jobs and then they come in during their spare time and give 110% for the charity.”

The Miles For Men team have been helping the Support Hub by doing food parcel deliveries and shopping for elderly and vulnerable residents. In addition, Miles For Men has also been continuing its own support to a number of local people whom it has been helping since before the Coronavirus emergency.

Some of the Miles For Men volunteers – (left to right) Betty Fletcher, Margaret Pearson, Karen Willgress, Michelle Shield and Kelly Pearson – pictured in Miles For Men’s shop in Middleton Grange Shopping Centre with food parcels ready for delivery

Micky added: “It’s not only bringing essential supplies – it’s bringing much-needed comfort and friendship as well.

“One elderly man we help has been in lockdown since Mother’s Day – our volunteers have a bit of a chat with him when they make deliveries. He really looks forward to that – it makes such a big difference.

“Hartlepool is an amazing place to be, with people once again coming together to help each other in difficult times. Hartlepool should really be called Heartlepool !”

Leigh Keeble, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Head of Community Hubs and Wellbeing, added: “Micky and his team of volunteers are a great example of the compassion and community spirit which has helped make the Hartlepool Support Hub so effective and I would like to thank them very much.

“As Micky says, the Hub has brought not only vital supplies and medicines to people most in need, it has brought friendship – and that is truly priceless.”