Church distributes 450 hampers to those in need

Rediscover Church has been distributing hampers for the past eight years

A church that gives out Christmas hampers to those in need says people are in "desperate situations" due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Rediscover Church, in Exeter, has distributed hampers for the past eight years to individuals, couples, and families facing difficult circumstances.

Ahead of the Christmas rush, the church said it had been approached by local charities and schools.

Organisers said each of the 450 hampers contained items such as pasta, beans, soup, tea, coffee, and cereal, alongside festive treats like mince pies, sweets and chocolates.

'Mammoth effort'

Jason Ham, operations co-ordinator at Rediscover Church, said: "Each year, we see the difference these hampers make to people's lives.

"When we deliver them, we often meet individuals who are overwhelmed with gratitude, with some even breaking down in tears at the door.

"This year, as we're distributing the hampers, we're meeting people in such challenging situations.

"They're worried that the finances won't stack up this Christmas, and they can't believe a local church has taken the time to put together a lovely hamper and deliver it to their door with such kindness."

He added: "Our congregation has always been incredibly generous, and this year has been no different.

"It's a mammoth effort from the community with food and financial donations, packers and car drivers."