People in need across Mansfield and Ashfield have benefited from an award-winning support project.

The Oasis Community Centre and Community Gardens, based on the Kilton Estate, Worksop, has run more than 30 projects for people of all ages, needs and interests.

When the Covid crisis started the charity began to give out more than 600 bunches of flowers from its Flowers For Life project with a label offering shopping and support to local people.  

The Oasis team went on to begin a  response project — Operation Oasis – which has gone on to raise more than £130,000 to create parcels and gifts to people in crisis need.  

So far the charity have given out 16,000 food boxes, essentials parcels and hero rewards to people across Bassetlaw and beyond.

Many food boxes and hampers of toiletries have also been given to people in crisis need in the Mansfield and Sutton areas over the last 18 months.

Oasis Community Centre and project manager Steve Williams said the project has put smiles on many faces and let people know they are not forgotten and that the community cares. 

“I woke up one night at the beginning of the Covid period with the words Operation Oasis in my mind and ideas of how to implement the project,” he added.

“Eighteen months later I am absolutely amazed at how much money we were able to find, how many funders trusted us with their cash, and how many people we have been able to help through the project.

“It was a hugely unexpected adventure that has taken us down many unexpected roads, along many streets and on many journeys.”