A voluntary and free 'community fridge' in Failsworth which supports dozens of households every week will be stocked full of ingredients for Christmas dinner.

The Failsworth community fridge, run by the Co-op Academy, is a place where residents can visit to access food and basic hygiene products.

The fridge supports an average of 30 households per week though it is anticipated that number will creep up around the festive period. 

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As many families in Failsworth and across the borough are still grappling with the cost-of-living crisis, Co-op Academy feared some households would struggle to afford to put a Christmas dinner on the table this year.

In recognition of the outstanding efforts of the community fridge team, the McCarthy Stone Foundation has now donated £500 to help fund the Christmas dinner project for those in need.

The Foundation, which is an independent registered charity of the UK's developer and manager of retirement communities, McCarthy Stone,  looks to support grassroots and volunteer-led charitable causes that promote the health and wellbeing of older people.

The company currently has a new retirement living development under construction on Ashton Road West and is now hoping to help bring some festive cheer to those who may be struggling in the run-up to the festivities.

The site, Sydney Grange, will have a collection of low-maintenance, energy-efficient and affordable privately owned apartments, designed to support over 60s to make the most of their retirement years.

The £500 donation will go towards stocking up Christmas dinner hampers, complete with turkey and all the trimmings, so that families won't miss out this year.

Jack Ryan, community engagement officer at Co-op Academy Failsworth, said: “We are really grateful to the McCarthy Stone Foundation for this timely donation.

"There are so many families in the area who are in desperate need of help through the provision of food and other items, but also older people who are isolated and struggle to access food.

"This is only increasing as we head into the Christmas season.

"So many people in today’s society face financial difficulties and this has got worse recently due to soaring prices.

“The donation is an enormous help towards our aim of ensuring nobody in the local area goes without a meal on Christmas.”

Declan Fishwick, business development manager at McCarthy Stone added: “We really wanted to show our support to the community of Failsworth, many of whom are facing such difficult times.

"Christmas is a time of year that should be enjoyed by everyone, no matter what their circumstances are.

"The community fridge is such a wonderful community project and it’s clear to see the work that goes in to support local families and individuals, week after week.

"We are thrilled that our donation will really make a difference at a key time of year.” 

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