As the pandemic hit back in March last year, a team of Woodbridge Town Councillors met as soon as the growing threat of Covid became apparent.  With a population of nearly 10,000, many older and more vulnerable, the councillors knew that many residents of this town would be shielding and unable to access all the services they rely on so heavily day to day, like food and medical supplies.

Funding from the Foundation has helped this emergency response group to act quickly, as they pulled together a support network to offer, help, advice and support.  A central helpline for people to call was quickly set up, and demand was felt almost immediately.  The Woodbridge Town Hall was set up as a space for a foodbank, and food parcels were distributed by a team of volunteers from there.  At its peak, the group were taking 40 calls a day, delivering 800 prescriptions a week, and working with local mask and scrubs sewing groups to ensure everyone received PPE where needed.