A MOTHER-daughter duo who helped to feed hundreds of Dodworth residents during the pandemic have been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley Award for their dedication to their community.
From October last year to April 2021, Joanne Birch and daughter Ashley Jay Laughton packed up and delivered food parcels to people that were in need or self-isolating.
“It came about because Ashley saw a post on Facebook from a woman who was in need of a food parcel,” said Joanne, 55, from Dodworth.
“We decided to put her a parcel together and it went from there.
“We did have to scale back the operation a little bit because we were delivering every where and it got a little bit crazy, so we decided to focus on Dodworth, Gilroyd, and the surrounding area.”
The pair also helped to provide presents at Christmas after what they described as a ‘very difficult year’.
“We just wanted to help our community,” added Joanne. “It’s been difficult for a lot of people and it was made worse with the fact that people were losing their jobs or going on furlough.
“It might only be a small thing, but it can make a big difference.
“It’s really made Ashley and I think about our lives and about what we value. We now realise that it’s not just ‘stuff’ that can bring you happiness, but something as simple as a conversation can mean the world when you’re lonely.
“I am overwhelmed that we have been nominated for an award.
“It’s lovely that what we did meant that much to people. We just saw it as helping our community during a time of need – we would do it again if people needed help.”
We are still on the look-out for Proud of Barnsley nominations. If you would like to nominate someone email ch@barnsley-chronicle.co.uk.
