HELP’s Ripon and Rural Wellbeing Service, has received a cash boost from Sainsbury’s in Ripon.

The store has presented a cheque for £2,528 to the Ripon and Rural Wellbeing Service, bringing its fundraising total to almost £3,000 from various activities run in store over the past year.

Sainsbury’s has been committed to supporting local good causes since it launched its Local Charity Partner scheme seven years ago. Employees of Sainsbury’s Ripon store have forged close links with the Ripon and Rural Wellbeing Service, raising thousands of pounds to support older and vulnerable people living independently across the District through in-store tombolas, book sales and a sponsored cycle.

The charity has also benefitted from having in-store information stands, allowing it to spread the word about its home visiting service and lunch clubs to local over 65s who may benefit from the service. The partnership has also enabled the charitable service to attract much-needed volunteers.

Julie Proudler, HELP’s Ripon Service Co-ordinator said: “Having Sainsbury’s support over the past year has made a real difference to our charity. The fundraising will directly support our services and being in-store has really helped to inform local people about what we do. We are very grateful to have been given the opportunity to be Sainsbury’s Ripon Local Charity Partner over the past 12 months.”

Harriet Briggs, Store Manager added: “It’s been a fantastic year working with the Ripon & Rural Wellbeing Service. It’s been great to see the charity develop and benefit from our support and contributions. I know our colleagues have enjoyed working with them and we will continue to support our fantastic community in Ripon.”

HELP’s Ripon and Rural Service assists over 65s with home visits at times when they may need extra support, such as during ill health or after bereavement. The service is supported by a team of volunteer befrienders who provide regular visits in the home, helping to improve clients’ feelings of wellbeing. The service also runs three lunch clubs in Grantley, Kirkby Malzeard and Masham. Further information about their services is available on 01765 645915 or rrwb@harcvs.org.uk or www.helpripon.org.uk