During The National Housing Federations’ Rural Housing Week, we asked our customers for some feedback from their experiences during lockdown. The following is feedback received from a resident of Butterknowle:

“At the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic most were worried of this unknown virus.

Living in a rural village with no local shop, I wanted to provide support to those most in need. After approaching North Star Housing I was awarded funding to provide ‘community wellness packs’. These packs consisted of essential foods and toiletries such as toilet roll, milk, bread, butter, veg, soup etc. The project then progressed to provide home cooked meals to the vulnerable people living in Butterknowle and the surrounding areas. At the very peak of the virus we were supporting over 80 people in our small rural area, providing them with nutritious home cooked meals as well as other essential items and of course some one regular to talk to.

Just when I thought North Star Housing couldn’t get any better, they offered, sourced and funded takeaway boxes to enable us to continue safely distribute of meals.

Coral and the team at North Star have been beyond amazing, always going the extra mile to support those in need. I, along with the village of Butterknowle and the surrounding areas are extremely grateful for the support that has been provided.

Without North Star this project wouldn’t have been possible.

It is a great comfort to know that North Star is committed to supporting our rural communities and they have done a grand job at showing this support, particularly over the last few months when we have needed them most.”