A teenager from North Belfast is working hard on a food drive to help those most vulnerable in the local community this Christmas.
Joanne-Louise Boland, 17, is a student at Belfast Model School for Girls and was inspired by her school's annual hamper for the Salvation Army to launch her own community fundraiser.
Working with Crusaders Football Club, Joanne-Louise was able to get the community onboard with donating food items which will help struggling families this festive season.
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As well as collecting food items, the teenager said any cash donations provided will be turned into vouchers to help with energy bills or food shopping amid the rising cost of living.
"The local community and Crusaders Football Club Supporters have been fantastic with their support by making generous donations of food, donating cash, or helping with the collecting of the goods at home matches. The volume of food collected to date has been excellent with a positive vibe from the community," Joanne-Louise told Belfast Live.
"We've had lots of people asking how they can get involved, what goods are required and when this is needed for. The cash donations (£160 to date) will also be turned into vouchers such as gas, electric or food vouchers.
"As a community it was great to see our partners Cliftonville Golf Club reach out to allow us the opportunity to use their club as an additional drop off point. With the cross community element I believe this shows the true strength of community spirit to all pull together."
Joanne-Louise said helping people this Christmas is a small part she can play at such a difficult time, and that she is always willing to help people in need.
She said: "Being able to help people who are struggling this winter is in my opinion a very small part that I can play in the current climate. When I see someone in need of assistance or in need of help, I am always ready to help in any way possible.
"If there’s a will, there’s a way. Like I have been told by many people that know I am doing this, 'there will always be people who are in need of help, they just need the right person to help them and that is who you are.'
"Even if I can help one family, this food drive will be a positive outcome."
Donations can be dropped off at the Crusaders Social Club (Harry D's) or at Cliftonville Golf Club between now and December 12.
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