FIFTY thousand food boxes will be delivered to the vulnerable within days – in an effort not seen since the Second World War.
Cans of tinned goods, loo roll and cornflakes are being sorted into food parcels for those who can’t leave their homes for 12 weeks.
Fruit, pasta and packs of custard creams are also in the boxes for those who have no nearby support from family or friends.
Ministers have revealed the first two thousand have been delivered this weekend to those stuck at home.
The mission is being overseen by Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick with the aid of military planners and councils.
Ministers are working with the food industry, local government and emergency partners to ensure the food parcels can be delivered. Depending on demand, hundreds of thousands of boxes could be sent out each week.
Medicines are to be delivered by community pharmacies. Food distributors will ensure essentials end up at the right homes. They will be left on the doorstep to minimise human contact.
There are around 1.5 million being asked to self-isolate after receiving notice from the NHS or their GP.
Communities Secretary, Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said: “This weekend sees the start of extraordinary steps to support the most clinically vulnerable, while they shield from coronavirus.”
“We will support these people at this difficult time, and the scale of an operation like that has not been seen since the Second World War.”
“This is an unprecedented package of support and I want to thank the food suppliers, local councils and everyone who has come together to create this essential service in just a matter of days.”
Two of the country’s largest food distributors Bidfood and Brakes are working together to deliver the packages.
Andrew Selley, CEO of Bidfood said: “Our highly professional drivers and warehouse teams will be keeping the wheels turning in this vital national endeavour.”
