MORE than 50 struggling families are relying on food parcels from a children’s centre to get them through the winter.

Little Lions, based ay Northwick Park School, in Third Avenue, Canvey, urged members of the community to bring in donations of essential items including tinned foods, rice, pasta and biscuits.

They were inspired to help after the Echo pledged to support the hungry over Christmas by collecting at supermarkets across South Essex in a bid to boost local food banks.

Scroll down to hear from people living on Thorney Bay

Little Lions, part of Castle Point Association of Voluntary Services, handed out food hampers and soup parcels, containing a recipe card, to more than 50 needy families at Thorney Bay Caravan Park.

The scheme was open to parents with children under five years-old.

Lindsey Gillingham, senior team leader at CAVS, said: "If a family has to chose between feeding their children or paying for gas to heat their home, they are going to chose to feed their kids. That is why we decided if we can do that for them instead, they will have enough money to pay for heating.

"We saw the campaign in the Echo and throughout December we asked people to bring in donations so we could stock up and help people who struggle during winter. It's about members of the community helping others in the community.

"Everyone was really pleased. We will hopefully be going back to see the families again soon, and we'll help them out again if they need it.

"We are here to support families in the community and that's what we're doing."

The association was formed in 1994 to provide support and guidance to voluntary and community organisations within Castle Point.

CAVS, which is a registered charity, runs befriending schemes, social clubs and youth groups as well as children's centres.

The food donation project is expected to continue into the future.

Anyone wanting to help can drop items off at Little Lions and the Tyrells Centre, in Seamore Avenue, Benfleet.