East Church gives out bags of kindness 

East Church in Norwich has gathered hundreds of gifts to distribute to people in the local community as part of its 'bags of kindness' initiative.
 

The donations have come from the East Church community, with additions from local schools, plus a grant from 'love your neighbour'. 

The church has packed 302 bags packed with festive treats are for families and individuals who may need a little bit of extra kindness this Christmas. The bags have been distributed to local schools, charities and refuges, as well as connections the church has through groups they run. Individuals have also been encouraged to sign up for a bag themselves or for others.

This is the first time the church, which is based at St Thomas on Earlham Road, has done the project and organisers intend to repeat it next year.

Lucy Stone, Curate at East Church said, "We want to share the love and light of Jesus with those who may be facing hardship this Christmas, that they may feel loved, seen and valued. It has been an incredible privilege to see the joy on people's faces as I've handed over a Bag of Kindness and I can't wait to do it again next year."