Free papers for those in need

North-West News Group will offer vulnerable and isolated residents in receipt of a weekly food parcel a complimentary copy of the Ulster Herald and Fermanagh Herald.

The news group have donated a limited number of newspapers to assist those most impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic access local news stories, important information and feel connected
to their local community.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s community coordination hub is working in partnership with Fermanagh Community Transport and Easilink to distribute food parcels provided by the Department for Communities to residents who are unable to leave their home to access food, who do not have support through family or friends, access to food deliveries from local suppliers or face food insecurity.

Speaking about the initiative, the chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr Siobhán Currie said, “Local papers have always been an integral part of the community here in the Fermanagh and Omagh district and with many places having poor internet coverage, people living in rural areas are heavily reliant on these newspapers for local stories and information. “I would like to commend the North-West News Group for their generosity. I am confident that this initiative will prove extremely beneficial to those who are feeling isolated at this time.”

Ulster Herald Editor, Nigel McDonagh, commented, “We are delighted to support Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in this extremely worthwhile scheme. In this unprecedented time of upheaval local newspapers like ourselves play an essential role in keeping communities informed, especially those isolated at home, with reliable news and information. “Our pages have also been packed with stories and pictures reflecting the amazing community spirit that has come to the fore since the lockdown began. People have been there for each other in these toughest of times, and we are also there to help assist the community in any way we can.”

Referrals to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Community Coordination Hub are directed through the NI Covid-19 Community Helpline: Freephone 0808 802 0020, by texting: ACTION
to 81025 or via email: covid19@adviceni.net.

Support and advice is available from 9am-5pm, seven days a week. A food parcel request can be submitted via a self referral form at www.fermanaghomagh.com