Leeds Irish Centre helps more than 800 Leeds families with Christmas food

Food from pasta to porridge has been sent to families across the city.

The York Road venue resembled an Amazon warehouse as every part of the centre was filled with thousands of pounds worth of food.

Manager Tommy McLoughlin said: "Over 200 bags per week were delivered across the city int he past month.

"We delivered them to schools and they gave them out to Catholic and non-Catholic vulnerable and needy families.

"The food was shopped for, packed and delivered by the centre staff and paid for by money donated from the annual Leeds Christmas Charity lunch which was held online this year."

Deputy manager Christy Power said helping the community was a "privilege" for the centre workers and volunteers.

He said he wanted to help get the parcels out to less fortunate families "during this difficult period of time".

This year marks the golden anniversary of the venue - the first purpose-built Irish Centre in the UK. It had arranged for 10-days of events, dinners and celebrations to be held in June to mark the 50th anniversary of its doors opening.

Sadly, due to the pandemic, all events were cancelled.

However, it did publish a commemorative book, `50 Years In The Making Leeds Irish Centre 1970 - 2020,’ which has sold worldwide and received wide acclaim.

During 2020’s lockdowns, the centre staff have twice weekly prepares sandwiches and drinks for the the city’s homeless charity, Simon On The Streets as well as helping other people in need.

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