How City Life Church in Sunderland is helping vulnerable people during isolation period

Shortly after lockdown measures were introduced, the church, which is located on Hylton Road, launched a new campaign called Love my neighbour to assist people who are self isolating.

The scheme is primarily aimed at those who are living alone, many of whom are elderly and have no family close by.

Others who have been helped include pregnant mothers, people who are self isolating with symptoms and work colleagues on the front line.

The church has provided printable flyers which can be posted through letter boxes asking if residents need help picking up shopping or urgent supplies, or just a friendly phone call.

Joanne Hilton from the church has helped several elderly neighbours as part of the scheme, which has included making rhubarb crumble and delivering food for neighbours and NHS staff.

“I have been doing shopping for the eldery in our street during covid,” she said. “I went around many large stores then small village shops. I came across a shop in Humbledon, the owner was outside opening a large delivery that had just arrived.

“I asked did he have toilet rolls. He replied no but I have hand wash. I kindly thanked him and said it’s only toilet rolls required as I’m shopping for elderly in the street.

“He promptly asked me to wait and went back in his shop and came out with a 24 pack of toilet rolls which he had kept, but once he heard they were for the elderly he gave me them! No charge at all, he’s such a lovely man.”

Like many churches across the country, City Life Church has moved its Sunday services online in recent weeks.

Lead Pastor Jonny Clarke said: “During these unprecedented times we have so much opportunity to be the church in action.

“We are helping people wherever we can, partnering with local organisations in our city and continuing to run our food bank.

“Our Sunday services have moved online and are attracting a wider audience with a message of hope. Why not join us this weekend? clcsunderland.org.”