A GOOD cause based in Ellesmere Port has received funding to feed 40 families in the Cheshire West and Chester area this half-term.

Milestone Mums received the boost from the Welcome Network, and the families will now be supported in all school holidays up until Easter.

Milestone Mums founder Sarah Finlay has teamed up with the Bridge Community Farm in Ellesmere Port, where they have helped support Sarah and her project.

Each family this week will receive a slow cooker, a veg box and a pack of meat, plus a pumpkin and carving kit.

Sarah said: "Two years ago when I was in a vulnerable situation. I didn’t go back to work from having Miley because I was mentally ill and, when my maternity pay ran out, all my benefits took ages to come through and I had to live off £50 per week for myself and the three kids.

"I had to go to a food bank every week for four weeks. I was ashamed, I felt like a failure, I felt like I didn’t deserve to be helped it was a really tough time and I had no idea how I was going to get through Christmas.

"Luckily for me I had some great friends and supportive family who helped me through it.

"Some people aren’t that lucky; I’ve met families who have had to chose whether they buy food or heating.

"It’s heartbreaking, it’s my home town, now I am in a better position I can help in my own way which is why supporting these families in school holidays is something I will continue to do as much as I can.”

Bridge Wellness Gardens and Bridge Community Farm promote positive mental health and wellbeing and were excited to assist Milestone Mums in feeding families in need throughout Ellesmere Port.

They employ people with learning difficulties and volunteers who have mental health issues, and were very proud to help fill veg boxes to distribute.

Clair Johnson, general manager, said "Growing food and sharing meals is part of our ethos. We have been touched by the response of the beneficiaries.

"Sarah Finlay from Milestone mums is a complete superstar for all that she does to help young mums and families."