Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties has donated £500 to two Hampshire-based voluntary service charities.

The Fareham Foodbank and the Southampton Sunday Lunch Project received £250 each from the housebuilder.

The Fareham Foodbank, local to Taylor Wimpey’s Bramley Park development, provides key provisions to hundreds, while the Southampton Sunday Lunch Project offers weekly meals to the needy.

The project, which recently won the King's Award for Voluntary Service, is run by 100 volunteers and serves around 120 meals every week at two centres.

The donation contributes to an ongoing charity aid scheme by Taylor Wimpey in support of such associations that provide indispensable cost-of-living aid to the Hampshire community.

The award was presented on April 24.

Claire Johnson, Fareham Foodbank co-ordinator, said: "We often hear about how food banks are a lifeline for many people who are struggling. We are continuing to see an increase in the number of households in need in our local community.

"Without the support of local companies and groups such as Taylor Wimpey, we wouldn’t be able to meet this growing need. We are so grateful for Taylor Wimpey’s support and for making this donation."

Valerie Laurent, chair of the Southampton Sunday Lunch Project, said: "Taylor Wimpey has been amazing in facilitating this wonderful donation which enables us to continue providing a hot three-course meal for those often in desperate need.

“All of this involves costs that we absolutely rely on donations to support as we have no formal funding. I would like again to offer my sincere thanks to Taylor Wimpey for their generous donation.”

Roz Wells, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties, said: "As the cost of living crisis continues, it can be a difficult time for many, so charities such as Fareham Foodbank and the Southampton Sunday Lunch Project are essential for ensuring local families and individuals have the support they need.

"We are delighted to be able to donate towards these charities to provide essential items to those in need during this difficult time."