Tanya's RAK - Random Act of Kindness - supports Somerset's flood victims

A YEOVIL woman has been thanked for her RAK – Random Act of Kindness – to support flood victims in Somerset.

The recent floods have brought misery to many and people have lost their homes, possessions and businesses in some of the worst weather the country has seen in 40 years.

The clean-up effort will take a long time, however one positive from this is that communities are pulling together and supporting one another through tough times.

Yarlington Housing Group resident Tanya Kingston is one of many that decided to do something to help those affected.

Tanya had been nominated to take part in controversial social media drinking craze NekNominate, but being aware of the fears over its safety, she decided to do something that would benefit others instead, so chose to complete a RAK - Random Act of Kindness.

This has led to her helping organise and arrange logistics to support flood victims across areas such as Thorney, Burrowbridge and Muchelney in Somerset.

PHOTO – TOP: Yarlington resident Tanya Kingston, left, with Somerset Community Foundation chief executive Justin Sargent and Yarlington Housing Group’s community manager Karen Davy.

Tanya’s first port of call for her RAK was the FLAG - Flooding on the Levels Action Group - Facebook page where she began responding to requests for food, animal feed and clothing.

Within days she had secured 20 hi-vis jackets and 17 pairs of waders from Yarlington Housing Group, six 25 kilo bags of chicken feed from Duffields, and set up collection points at B&Q, Sterling Care and Ali’s Bar in Yeovil.

Tanya said: “The FLAG Facebook page has over 9,000 likes, as people ‘shout-out’ on there with what they require, others in the community respond, working together to help source and provide it.

“A range of things are needed but particularly hand sanitizer, razors, headache tablets – everyday things really, and cleaning products which will be essential once flood waters subside.”

The collection points in Yeovil also accept old clothes and shoes which are able to be exchanged for money that goes towards the Somerset Flood Relief Fund, set up by the Somerset Community Foundation, a local charity that is managing the relief effort.

The fund has already received £25,000 from the Prince of Wales’ Countryside Fund following his visit in early February.

Tanya added: “It’s great to feel as though I can do something to help. I’ve got three children so I haven’t been able to dig or sandbag.

“The community spirit and support in response to the flooding is incredible. I’ve met some amazing people as a result of this - it’s fantastic seeing people give up their time and transport to help.”

If you would like to do something to help take donations of goods along to any collection point, visit www.somersetcf.org.uk or call the Somerset Community Foundation on 01749-344949 to make a donation.

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