more reflections from the team behind the wheel
by Sylv, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator (and one of the BOX-IT delivery team)
Sourcing fresh food; portioning spices and sauces; packing it together with care: The BOX-IT food delivery project continues on, despite the chilly weather and the ever present pressure of the pandemic.
Every week without fail, our driving team distributes the BOX-IT food kit deliveries across Southwark. The deliveries take them from the very top to the very bottom of the Borough in their trusty van (and everywhere in between!). Whilst out and about in the community, they reflect on the stories shared by those who they meet on their rounds.
Here are some stories to share from recent weeks:
This month has been a tale of two halves. It started off with freezing temperatures. Everyone had to make changes to deal with the snowfall and icy conditions. During this time, some BOX-IT participants let us know that they were quite unwell with COVID-19, and extra precautions were made to ensure that food deliveries could still be made to them safely.
Fast forward three weeks, and the temperature leapt up by over 10 degrees. In stark contrast to the snowy weather, the sun started shining day after day. And it wasn’t just the weather that was looking up:
I am glad to say that those who were having to isolate due to the virus are now back to good health and are coming to the door to say ‘hello’ once again. Spring is in the air, and the evenings are lighter for longer.
Every week, the delivery team are heartened to hear of another person getting their vaccination. Some who had said that they had been hesitant in the beginning were saying that they felt less anxious, which could only be a good thing.
People’s kindness and thoughtfulness towards the delivery team and each other continued on. Always so gratefully received and refreshing to see, with one participant sharing her fresh vegetables from her BOX-IT delivery with others as there is too much for her to use herself. Another BOX-IT participant let us know that they were keeping tabs on an elderly neighbour who was struggling; he was sharing his food with them whenever he could. It hits hard when you think that, in some cases, this sharing is coming from those who have the least.
And I must not forget the yummy home-baked cookies that were waiting for us this week from one of the drop-offs. (I should have taken a photo, but they were gone in an instant!).
It’s been great to see some participants coming down to meet me (still socially distanced); taking those first steps to fitness by using the stairs. For many, being able to speak to someone face to face has been an important part of the delivery process.
I would also like to introduce you to Buddy. Buddy is a Jack Russell pup, who is being looked after during the day by one of our participants. She has told us that Buddy has made such a difference to her; she has been taking him on walks and helping with his training. The introduction of a non-judgemental friend has really improved her lockdown experience. What a sweetie!
And finally, next month, there’s a new baby due! BOX-IT family best wishes are coming in from all sides.
After 9 months of delivering, the team have built unique relationships with each of the participants, and will continue to share snapshots of their lockdown stories with the world. If you want to catch up on stories shared by the delivery team from earlier in the year, check out the “BOX-IT delivery behind the scenes” blog from last month here.
And if you’d like more information about BOX-IT or think you’d be able to help, have a look and get in contact on our project page.