Honiton charity provides a lifeline for the community during lockdown

A long-established Honiton charity providing transport and befriending services for the community has become even more of a lifeline for many throughout the coronavirus crisis.

TRIP Community Transport Association has responded to over 4,000 support requests; including co-ordinating 1,000 grocery shops for vulnerable people isolating, hot meal deliveries through The Random Kitchen and providing befriending services - anything from fixing someone's light bulb to lending an ear.

All of the support they provide is based on a core ethos of combatting loneliness.

On top of that, since the lockdown they have deployed their resources to help local businesses with providing a delivery service.

Honiton Fishmongers, Porkies Butchers and The Lacemakers Café have all benefited from TRIP transportation in order to adapt their own services in the wake of the pandemic.

TRIP Deputy Manager, Sharon Thorne told Honiton Nub News: "It's amazing to see the community pull together when faced with a crisis.

"With our resources and having been established in the town for many years; we are well-placed to facilitate deliveries, provide essential services and offer support to the most vulnerable members of the community.

"Our main objective is dealing with the issue of loneliness, which is two-fold with people self-isolating.

"Being in a position to also lend a hand to local businesses adapting their services is an added bonus, and a real honour.

"They have stepped up in difficult circumstances to help keep people safe at home and to reach out to the community."

Sharon also mentioned about the return of the TRIP Ring and Ride service: "We are looking at the first week in July and will be running with reduced numbers and other Covid-19 safety measures."

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To continue helping the community, TRIP Community Transport Association rely on donations from people, all contributions no matter how small are greatly received.

Click here to donate.