One of Leeds' largest taxi firms donates hundreds of pounds worth of groceries to foodbank

One of Leeds’ largest taxi and private hire vehicle operators, Amber Cars, has donated £300 worth of groceries and confectionary to support vulnerable members of the local community and those experiencing poverty and hunger in the area.
Leeds North and West Foodbank is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, which supports communities and churches to open foodbanks across the UK.
Founded in Moortown in 2013, Leeds North and West Foodbank now has nine foodbank centres across the area running 11 sessions a week to combat poverty and hunger.
Because of COVID restrictions, drop-in centres have been closed since May, with the Foodbank’s services limited to deliveries only.
Amber Cars, a regional hub of one of the UK’s leading private hire operators Veezu, say it is always keen to help the local community where possible and stepped in to donate.
Chris Neary, Amber Cars Regional Director, said: “Driver-partners work in the heart of their communities and often hear first-hand the difficulties people face. After a particularly challenging 2020, we wanted to give something back to those in need in our local area. We hope this donation brought some much-needed support to those who really needed it. Volunteers are generously giving up their time during this latest lockdown and this is the least we could do.”
Amber Cars recently teamed up with Wetherby’s The Cottage Coffee Shop and Gift Shop for a drop-off of afternoon tea hampers to nearby Ashfield Care Home.
Elderly residents and hardworking staff, who have been working round the clock, were said to be delighted with the fresh snacks and cakes as a treat after a particularly challenging few months.
Prior to the November lockdown, Amber Cars also delivered care packages of essential items to those in need and to loyal Amber Cars passengers.
Clifford Parker, Warehouse and Logistics Manager for Leeds North & West food bank, said: “We really appreciate Amber Cars’ kind donation. These items will make a huge difference to our service users, who would otherwise struggle during the lockdown.”