TATA Steel has backed the Jesus Cares Christmas hamper campaign this week, donating hundred of pounds worth of food to struggling families across South Wales.

Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, Jesus Cares started in 2009 as a result of community organisations contacting the Kings Church to ask for food for families they were working with, who had no money to feed their children.

The Argus is on board with the project again this year to try and raise the profile of the work already carried out by the church, based at Lower Dock Street, Newport, and encourage as many readers and local businesses as possible to pitch in. Tata Steel is donating as much Christmas foodstuffs as possible for £250-£300.

Keith Farron, community relations manager at Tata Steel, said: “The pressure on families can be stressful at the best of times but particularly over the Christmas period, but charities such as Kings Church do a fantastic job distributing essentials to families in need. I hope Tata Steel has been able to contribute in some small way.”

The Kings Church has exceeded its target of delivering around 3,000 food hampers to agencies across South Wales, such as Teen Challenge, Solace, Gwent Probation, and Big Issue, who will disperse the hampers to clients in need, but is still looking for donations in the weeks running up to Christmas.

Faye Edwards of Jesus Cares said: “Around 3,000 Christmas food hampers have been delivered to date, but we are still looking to carry on making up the hampers on the run up to Christmas, so we are still looking for any donations.

“It is absolutely fantastic Tata Steel has supported our campaign.”

The Argus is asking generous readers to encourage people at their business, workplace, school, office or factory, to donate items such as Christmas puddings, mince pies, chocolate, or any other food item that will keep throughout the festive period. In return, we plan to feature those who support us and carry updates in the run up to Christmas.

Pop any extra items into the King’s Church office on 71 Lower Dock Street, Newport. To support our appeal, contact Sophie Brownson on 01633 777247 or email sophie.brownson@southwalesargus.co.uk