Bristol Rovers is delighted to welcome Operation Community Hamper to The Memorial Stadium on Saturday 28 March, before the fixture against Accrington Stanley, as part of their Easter egg collection campaign.
The organisation was established by lifelong Gashead Charlotte Churchill after she recognised the increase in the number of families accessing food banks during the COVID pandemic. Operation Community Hamper (OCH) now operates on the back of recommendations from professional establishments, such as schools, health professionals, nurseries, and social services, who refer disadvantaged families or individuals for additional help.
The charity was originally called Operation Christmas Hamper. However, the name was altered when its status changed from a CIC (Community Interest Company) to a registered charity, with organisers recognising that they were offering support throughout the year, not only at Christmas. This support includes purchasing groceries, paying for enriching activities for families, topping up gas and electric meters and buying essential furniture.
The campaign follows the resounding success of last year, when Operation Community Hamper collected over 2,300 Easter eggs, which were distributed to local children and families.
If you would like to support the campaign, please bring an Easter egg before the match against Accrington, with the collection taking next to the Pirate Deck in the Fanzone.
More information about Operation Community Hamper can be found on their website at https://www.operationcommunityhamper.co.uk/ or you can contact them directly at info@operationch.co.uk.
