A COMMUNITY project in Runcorn which distributes food to people in need has received a vital funding boost.

The 11 at Halton Brook Community Centre has provided food packages to hundreds of local families since its launch in 2017.

It also provides a safe and welcoming environment to people who need support.

The project has now received a welcome financial boost from Cheshire’s police and crime commissioner David Keane through his Community Police Fund.

This is a scheme which reinvests money confiscated from criminals back into the community.

The Four Estates team which runs the project worked with local officers to make the successful bid.

In her application, community development manager Shelagh Kearney said: “Halton Brook has long been an area of high deprivation, and The 11 has been well utilised since it began.

“Many people arrive at The 11 when they are at their lowest, and the approach taken by the project has led to the prevention of several suicides, signposting to other services and training and employment for some.”

After awarding the funding, PCC Keane said: “This is a hugely worthwhile project, not just for the immediate help it provides to those in need, but also the longer-term support through signposting to other services.

“Organisations such as this are vital in our local communities, and this bid is another great example.”