'City has given me so much, I wanted to give back'

A man and woman stand in a kitchen, each is holding a plate of food. The man wears a plastic apron over his shirt, the woman wears a protective head covering.Image source, Good Shepherd
Image caption,

Vik Rana (left) with Good Shepherd head cook Louise Hand

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Meals paid for by a local resident and his family have been served to 130 people at a charity supporting disadvantaged and homeless people in Wolverhampton.

Friday's sausage and mash at the Good Shepherd was funded by Vik Rana, who said he wanted to support the local community.

"I'm Wolverhampton born and bred. It has given me so much, I wanted to give back," Mr Rana said.

The charity said it was incredibly grateful for the continued support from members of the community like Vic, and their generosity helped keep the food service going for those who need it most.

A line of around 20 people are stood in front of a brick building with grey barred windows. The words Good Shepherd are sprayed on the wall to the left of themImage source, Good Shepherd
Image caption,

The charity helps disadvantaged people in Wolverhampton

Mr Rana also provided bags of essential toiletries with support from Tesco, and covered the cost of hot drinks from a coffee van.

"At the Good Shepherd, it starts with a meal but it doesn't end there," said Chloe Bladen, food service manager.

The charity also provides outreach and prevention services for people experiencing homelessness and financial pressure.

In addition, it operates a community shop selling food at affordable prices, and a social enterprise cafe, which is open to the public.

All the proceeds go to its free-to-access services.

"The support the community provides Good Shepherd helps us to in turn support some of the most disadvantaged people in Wolverhampton, thank you," said Ms Bladen.

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