A BRADFORD-based mental health charity has been boosted by a donation from an online in-date food retailer.

The Cellar Trust has received a donation of £2,764.74 raised by Food Circle Supermarket.

The funds have been raised through the sale of Clif Bloks and will be used to fund additional hours for a Peer Support Worker as part of the charity’s Haven crisis service.

With the Coronavirus pandemic having a detrimental impact on the wellbeing of many, this donation ensures The Cellar Trust, which has delivered 3,162 sessions in the past year (up 62 per cent on the previous year), can continue providing a range of mental health services to support people across Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale, Craven and the surrounding towns and villages.

From its Haven service dealing with severe mental health crises to employment support and mental health awareness courses, the charity helps people recovering from mental health problems build brighter futures.

Food Circle Supermarket, which delivers quality products including protein bars, cookies, and even brownies, from some of the best-known brands in the health and sports nutrition world, is passionate about creating a difference within the community.

Paul Simpson, Food Circle Supermarket’s Co-Founder, said: “The pandemic has unfortunately had a massive impact on everyone, no matter their background.

“Charities like The Cellar Trust have been doing an amazing job, particularly in these challenging circumstances, by helping those most in need and tackling the pressures of increased referrals.

“We wanted to give back to show our appreciation for the inspirational work the charity carries out.”

With the announcement of the nation-wide lockdown last year and strict social distancing measures, The Cellar Trust carried out a large mobilisation effort to ensure that work could be carried out effectively at home. Some of its services have already resumed, including face to face Haven sessions, however some are still operating slightly differently including it’s onsite café, which now offers a collection service.

Kim Shutler, chief executive officer of The Cellar Trust, said: “Whilst we have seen an unprecedented increase in the demand for our services due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have also witnessed some amazing partnerships with other local businesses and their kindness and support is much appreciated.

“We have enjoyed working with Food Circle Supermarket and the money raised will be going towards funding one of our Peer Support Worker’s additional hours in our Haven service.

“Donations like this make a huge difference to our team and the people that we help.”

As part of its commitment towards making a difference amongst communities, Food Circle Supermarket has supported a range of charities in the past including The Real Junk Food Project which redistributes surplus food to help reduce food waste. This is something Food Circle Supermarket is extremely passionate about.