Praise for volunteers at Rushden's RUSH 2 The DEN

A group of volunteers have been thanked for going above and beyond for the children and families of Rushden during lockdown.

On behalf of Rushden Town Council, town mayor Cesare Marinaro visited RUSH 2 The DEN children's centre to thank Nina and her volunteers for all they have done during lockdown.

He also wanted to wish them luck ahead of re-opening on September 7.

While the children's centre has been unable to run its normal activities due to Covid-19, Nina and her team made changes to ensure they could still support the community.

Their efforts have included compiling and hand delivering fortnightly free activity and craft packs for more than 600 local children and young people to assist their mental health and well-being.

They have also been utilising their building as a temporary food bank, which has been receiving regular surplus food donations from supermarkets in the area including Asda, Morrisions, The Co-op, Waitrose and Costa.

The food bank has been open to 'anyone who needed a little helping hand' and Nina said: "The temporary food bank was a lifesaver for many and continues to be in great demand."

RUSH 2 The DEN's volunteers also helped deliver food parcels to 80 families a week during lockdown.

The children's centre 'Swap Shop' service was extended and includes baby's, children's and young people's clothing and school uniforms as well as books, equipment and toys.

The Swap Shop and food bank are currently open Monday to Friday from 9am to 11am and on Saturday from 9.30am to 11am.

Since lockdown eased, RUSH 2 The DEN's youth clubs have been taking place outdoors and in local parks, with activities including socially distanced park games, countryside walks and bike rides.

But from September 7, groups and youth clubs will be able to resume in their Fitzwilliam Street home in a Covid-secure environment.

After visiting Nina and her team, Cllr Marinaro said: "Thank you to all of the RUSH 2 The DEN volunteers, the work you carry out really is invaluable to our community and we wish you all the very best upon your re-opening."

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