West Vale Fisheries joins forces to give fish and chips to the elderly

During the COVID-19 pandemic the shop on Stainland Road has remained open, while also delivering to vulnerable individuals who were forced to shield as a result of the quarantine measures.

Focus4Hope have been a prominent figure in community work throughout the region over the years.

Their work involves fundraising events for the local homeless, elderly, and isolated in West Yorkshire, as well as fortnightly outreach events to help the homeless in Leeds city centre.

Their work with the elderly and isolated has seen a significant increase in enquiries during the pandemic, and at their peak they were delivering over 100 food parcels a week.

Both groups worked together to deliver fresh food to the vulnerable elderly in Calderdale, providing over 20 meals in a single day.

Mark Kosanovic, Owner of West Vale Fisheries, said: “While the virus has forced us to spend so much time apart from one another, it’s helped create a real sense of local community. We have seen everybody come together to help those in need, and it has been very inspiring.

"When we started helping people who were isolating during lockdown, we knew we wanted to do more, and partnering with an organisation like Focus4Hope was the best way to do that. The work they do with those in need locally is superb.”

Louise Reed, Founder of Focus4Hope, said: “We were so grateful to Mark for reaching out. It can’t be overstated how much a good meal can make someone’s day, particularly with the local elderly we support. It’s great to see more businesses get involved with helping their local community during these difficult times.”