A Chorleywood woman has been recognised by the Queen for helping to feed disadvantaged children and the vulnerable during the Covid-19 lockdowns.
Vanessa Rousseau has been honoured with a British Empire Medal after she established the Chorleywood Corona Support Group only days before the first national lockdown came into place.
Ms Rousseau said she was delighted to be honoured. She said: “I can’t quite believe it. I dedicate it to everyone who helped the group.”
By the time the national lockdown was introduced on March 23, she had signed up more than 100 volunteers and secured an estimated £1,500 in donations from local organisations.
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The money was used for food parcels that were given to disadvantaged children and vulnerable adults.
Ms Rousseau, who also serves on the executive committee of the local residents association, filled the food parcels in her own home.
To date, 865 fresh meals, more than 140 boxes of fresh fruit and vegetables, and more than 300 emergency food parcels, as well as £1,650 in Tesco vouchers have been delivered.
In addition, Ms Rousseau worked with the local Co-Op to set up a call and collect service so that people who were shielding could do their shopping orders over the phone.
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