Ardingly Connected Together was formed in the early days of the Covid Pandemic to ensure that those in need received food deliveries and other essentials. We delivered to over twenty families as well as a number of older people who were most often on their own.
We also set up a food bank so people could obtain food when needed. Once the pandemic had eased, this then became the Hub at the back end of Hapstead Hall. Every Wednesday and Saturday this is now open mainly as a book and jigsaw puzzle exchange. It is well used and has become a meeting point.
Throughout the year, we have continued the food deliveries as well as festive and seasonal deliveries to those on their own. With the help of Ardingly College we also deliver Christmas presents to young families who might otherwise miss out on Christmas.
The whole point of Ardingly Connected Together was both to bring some joy into people’s lives and also allow people in the Village to connect with others. To that end, we have run an Easter egg hunt for the past four years, organised the hugely successful Village Day, helped set up the community choir and much more besides.
Throughout we have received financial and in kind support from the Sussex Community Fund, Hansons, Ardingly College, Fellows and Ardingly News, plus individual donors.
We are a small team of eight volunteers and we are always keen to welcome new volunteers.