A COMMUNITY group that has had to cancel its fundraising events this year is still going strong by supporting NHS staff.

MINDFest, a non-profit organisation which aims to raise money to put back into the community, has had to cancel a number events planned this year due to the coronavirus outbreak.

However, the mental health charity has been donating food and welfare packages to Barnsley NHS staff.

David Scott, from MINDfest, said: “With the current situation that we are all in, sadly we have had to cancel a number of events this year, but that hasn’t stopped us doing what we can for our local communities.

“Over the past few months we have been supporting our amazing NHS staff at Barnsley hospitals and beyond.

“We have recently supplied a buffet for all the front-line staff in the ICU at Barnsley and Rotherham hospitals as we wanted to let them know that they are very much thought of.

“We also wanted to let our elderly know that we haven’t forgot about them too, so we spent hundreds of pounds buying arts and craft sets for nursing homes in Bolton-upon-Dearne and Mexborough to keep them entertained.”

The group is also looking for ways to keep children entertained and keep stress levels down during the lock down.

“We have also purchased more arts and crafts sets in all different forms and sizes for the local children and adults who are struggling at the minute.

“Our intention is that by doing this, we hope to keep stress levels down for both parents and children during these uncertain times.

“We will also be supplying a small number of stress busting packs for adults too.”