Alex McDonell at the Aisling Project

THE Tribune’s Christmas food van was making the rounds this week to deliver a festive boost to those who need it the most.

Donating goodies that ranged from mince pies to children’s toys, we hope the deliveries add a bit of seasonal cheer.

Working with north London-based construction firm Murphys, we have been visiting community groups through December to help stock up shelves with must-haves for the festivities.

Big-hearted workers at Murphys have been raising money and chipping in from their own wage packets to make sure no one feels left out – and with their help, we have made sure people on the Archway estate have all they need.

The Aisling Return to Ireland Project, based in Holloway, was one of the stops on the Tribune trail. The charity reaches out to Irish people who are vulnerable, isolated and alone and helps long-term emigrants return to Ireland on holiday.

Alex McDonnell, who co-ordinates the Aisling Project, said: “We are as ever grateful for the annual help from the Tribune and its readers. It’s gestures like this that mean so much, it’s much more than what’s inside. It’s about making sure everyone feels valued in our communities and just helping at a time of year many really struggle.”

Monika Schwarz and Esther Greaves at the Girdlestone Food Co-Op

Meanwhile, members of the Girdlestone Food Co-op, a non-profit community-led organisation, were also part of the Tribune festivities.

Formed from a group that set up during the pandemic to help neighbours, the co-op is not a food bank – instead, members join up and food is bought in bulk, meaning everyone enjoys huge savings.

Joining costs £3 a week – and is only payable if you come on a Wednesday or Thursday to collect groceries – and in return members can choose what they want from available stock. Food is also donated by the Felix Project, while Archway traders also donate fresh produce, including meat and fish.