VOLUNTEERS in Basingstoke have said they are "absolutely buzzing" after spending the week stocking up the freezer and making meals for the homeless, and even decorating a school.
Jessica Mackie, along with Beth Herbert and various team members from Basingtoke's Edison Smart recruitment company, spent three days contributing to multiple good causes, including The Camrose Centre, which provides meals for homeless people.
"It was an incredible experience," said Jess, the senior marketing manager at Edison Smart, adding: "The office is absolutely buzzing wanting to do more to help our community."
The staff members began their Selfless Days volunteering week on Tuesday, August 20, by visiting The Camrose Centre.
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Jess said: "When we first visited The Camrose Centre, we learnt that they had recently done a Facebook appeal for frozen protein, chicken, mince, and sausages; but that they didn’t get a response so they were running really low on their stocks.
"Having seen what an incredible job all the volunteers and workers do, we made sure to go back on Thursday, August 22, with lots to stock up their freezer."
The team arrived at 9.30am to set up the room. From there, they prepared and cooked a hearty sausage casserole with mash, served tea, engaged in conversations with visitors, and helped with the clean-up and packing away after lunch.
Inspired by the work done at The Camrose Centre, Jess, along with her colleague, has decided to continue to volunteer in her own time.
She said: "Two of our own Edison Smart workers, Beth Herbert and myself have also signed up to volunteer on our own time."
Clare Farrow, manager at The Camrose Centre, said: "I can't tell you how fantastic it’s been having both teams in this week.
"Not only have they got on with the job and made fantastic meals without hardly any instruction, they've gone out of their way to get to know our team, ask questions about what we all do and probably most importantly they've chatted with our clients in a way that has had them all say just how great and lovely they are."
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As well as this, the team of volunteers spent Wednesday, August 21 at Maple Ridge Primary School gardening and painting fences, the hall and classrooms.
This was Edison Smart's third year supporting the school, as internal head of talent acquisition, Jade Vincent, previously arranged projects as her daughter attends Maple Ridge.
She said: "I can’t thank you all enough for today. The difference this makes to the school is unbelievable.
"It was brilliant to see the energy and everyone getting stuck in to get the jobs done. Thank you so much. Means a lot."
Ben Wallin, co-director at Edison Smart, said: "At Edison Smart, we believe that giving back to the community is not just a responsibility, but a privilege.
"Our 'Selfless Days' are an opportunity for our team to step out of the office and make a direct, positive impact on the lives of those around us.
"We are proud to support The Camrose Centre and Maple Ridge Primary School, and we look forward to continuing this tradition of community service."
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