A South Cumbrian family firm has raised £25,000 over the last five years to support unpaid carers in the area.
Stephen Willan and his parents, Kathy and David, owners of David Willan Food Hall near Oxenholme Railway Station, have backed Carer Support South Lakes since 2020.
Introduced to Carer Support South Lakes by volunteer and unpaid carer Tracy Simpson, Stephen began supporting the Kendal-based charity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Initially he offered to donate pie and peas for a Christmas party, which was then cancelled due to lockdown.
The family business went on to name Carer Support South Lakes as its charity of the year in 2020 – a title it has honour each year since.
What started with festive fundraising hampers has evolved into a thriving partnership.
David Willan Food Hall also includes a gallery selling paintings, donation boxes, pin badges, and a monthly scratch card game to raise funds for Carer Support South Lakes.
During the pandemic, the firm cooked and delivered Sunday lunches to 60 to 70 vulnerable people each week in Kendal, and delivered food to 40 to 50 households.
It also included Carer Support South Lakes’ leaflets in every delivery, ensuring people caring for family or friends were made aware of the help available.
Stephen said: “It was emotional taking some of the orders. Some of the people hadn’t spoken to anyone since I was there the week before. I had no idea how many people were alone.
“I am pleased we can help a local charity that is helping many local people. I just like to help others wherever I can. I never actually added up how much we’d raised – it’s not about that – but I do plan to keep supporting Carer Support South Lakes.
“We are very grateful to our local customers for their support, raising funds for carer Sspport. And because of our location next to the railway station on the West Coast Mainline, many people who donate are from all over the country and world.”
Stephen still delivers shopping every week to customers who started ordering from him during lockdown.
David Willan Food Hall is run by three generations – Stephen’s mum and dad, David and Kathy, Stephen, and his two children, Harry and Sophie.
Deputy CEO of Carer Support South Lakes, Holly Cragg said: “Stephen and his family’s lasting commitment has made a real, tangible difference in the lives of unpaid Carers – and we are very grateful to them. Their generosity and kindness has been unbelievable.”
