Rob has spent the day with volunteers in Stokenchurch and Radnage today, seeing first-hand the many ways in which residents and local businesses are continuing to help the most vulnerable in their community.
Rob has been vocal in his support for local volunteers throughout the coronavirus crisis and last month was joined by the Prime Minister in Parliament thanking volunteers for their work.
Today, Rob helped with the “Mash Meals” initiative, which is providing fresh meals to NHS workers and local people who are shielding. Rob was delighted to collect a financial donation for the meals from Stokenchurch dentist Smitha Pillai before going to the award-winning Mash Inn in Radnage to pick up food parcels from the owner Nick Mash, and then joining volunteer coordinator, Angela Howard, to deliver the meals.
Rob also went to Stokenchurch library to help volunteers delivering books to those currently unable to go out, providing yet another valuable service.
Whilst in Stokenchurch, Rob also thanked local schoolboy Keyaan Hameed, who has been collecting donations for the One Can Trust food bank charity.
After volunteering, Rob said:
“The community spirit here in both Radnage and Stokenchurch is absolutely fantastic – as it has been from the start of the coronavirus crisis.
“The “Mash Meals” initiative is a brilliant team effort that’s being supported by the whole community – from the local dental surgery helping to fund the meals to the amazing chef Jonathon Parry preparing them, to the volunteers delivering them throughout the village.
“I’m really impressed at how people are finding ways to help – whether it’s Keyaan collecting cans for the food bank, or the team at the library, who are always looking for more volunteers to join them.
“Although we are starting to see some signs of a return to normality, the most vulnerable in our communities may need our support for some time to come, and it’s reassuring to know that there are many local people who are still prepared to give up their own time to help their neighbours.
“I’d like to say another massive thank you to all the volunteers and businesses across my constituency who are helping others at this difficult time.”
