A NEW scheme to help keep Witham residents fed has been officially launched after a visit from the town’s MP.

Priti Patel MP has officially launched the Witham Community Food Support scheme.

The former Home Secretary visited the Witham Community Hub last week to formally declare the scheme open.

She was joined by hub chairman Tina Townsend, who has been the driving force behind getting the scheme off the ground.

Also attending was Benjamin Mann, senior equality and partnerships advisor at Essex County Council and Lewis Barber, Deputy to Louise McKinley Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance.

The scheme, which works by referral, aims to give support to people struggling with food bills.

People can be referred by letter to a local authority, social services, a school, or GP surgery. 

The Community Food Support Scheme will then issue a card which will allow the person to buy food at a discounted rate through the scheme. 

The focus will be on supplying staple foods such as eggs, milk, butter and cheese, as well as tinned food at a discounted rate of up to 20 per cent below retail prices.

Speaking after the launch, Ms Patel said: “I want to thank everyone who has led this important initiative, which will provide essential support to constituents in Witham.

“This initiative is a marvellous example of the way the Witham community comes together to support vulnerable people in difficult times.

“I am delighted to support an organisation that has been able to get this important venture off the ground so speedily and efficiently.”

Mrs Townsend added: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped me to set up the Community Food Support Scheme, particularly Essex County Council, who have given me lots of advice throughout the process. 

“Thanks also to Priti for being here on our big day. 

“I am proud that the hub is able to offer this new safety net for vulnerable people in our community.”