Based in Smethwick, African French Speaking Community Support (AFSCS), provides a comprehensive range of advice and information to support those who are isolated and disadvantaged in their community.
They received a £1,500 grant from the Heart of England Community Foundation’s Coronavirus Resilience Fund which will support them as they help vulnerable people pay utility bills, purchase essential items as well as providing over the phone support to those in need.
Jacques Matensi – Kubanza, from AFSCS, said:
“Many people affected by health conditions have been advised not to go out. They are totally locked up and need support from others to survive.
“Many vulnerable older people could pass away in their own homes without any support from voluntary organisations. There are also big families currently struggling to feed their families at this particular time.”
Parveen Akhtar volunteers for AFSCS:
“I’ve been doing voluntary work at Foodbanks for 7 years; I’ve been working with AFSCS for about 4 years and I also work as a carer so I’m very busy at the moment! I’ve come to help again today.
“I’ve been getting some people food from the shops, baguettes, yogurts, stuff that is easy to cook and eat. Some of the people can’t speak English and some need a lot of help.”
As expected in recent weeks Parveen has seen the need increase:
“The demand is getting more and more; some people are stuck with their benefits and have to wait for five or six weeks for them. I do always donate £10 or £20 to buy food and stuff like that but I feel sorry for those that can’t afford it.
“It makes me happy knowing that people have food in their bellies, they’ve got something to eat. We just try and do whatever possible.”
If you’d like to contribute to the Foundation’s Coronavirus Resilience Fund please click here.
If you’d like to apply for funding from the Fund please click here.
For a full list of organisations supported please click here.