Find charity in Ipswich breaks Christmas record

 

The charity, which operates all year round, was founded in 1990. About 15 churches are part of the network in the Ipswich area.

 

Find director, Maureen Reynel, said her history of charitable work had its origins in her own childhood. She was the youngest child of seven and her mother died when she was 11 years old.

 

"Find is based on faith, hope and love and without that I couldn't do what I do, because it takes a lot of energy," she said. "I need lots of miracles, and they do happen."

 

People who receive the presents and food are referred to Find by social services and support groups, covering areas such as mental health, drug and alcohol addiction and domestic abuse.

 

Presents and food are donated to Find at its premises in east Ipswich where volunteers collect and wrap them.

 

Jackie Durrant, one of the volunteers, said: "It's very interesting and you meet all sorts of people. Until I started four years ago, I had no idea just how many people needed help, and its being going up and up each year."

 

Children at Farlingaye High School, Woodbridge, have held a competition to see who can make up the best hamper.