Churches in Barnet are working together to distribute free Christmas hampers to those in desperate need in the festive season. Christmas Lunch on Jesus is a project that, now in its seventh year, gives a turkey and some hope to families who are struggling financially.

Since its beginnings in 2006 at Jesus House, Brent Cross, the initiative has seen more than 12,000 hampers distributed to residents across the borough. Each year the project grows and now involves 33 churches in the area.

This year the hampers have an extra heart warming gift – a CD recorded by members of Jesus House's Tribe of Judah choir and other award-winning gospel artists. It includes a Christmas message of hope from Senior Pastor of Jesus House and member of the Alliance's One People Commission, Agu Irukwu.

The Christmas album, titled White Christmas is a collection of uplifting festive songs featuring gospel singers such as Otty Warmannwhose single, Words was recently nominated for best unsigned song and Arinola Nnatuanya, UK gospel singer, lead vocalist and worship leader alongside The Tribe of Judah choir.

Each hamper contains a family sized turkey, carrots, brussel sprouts, stuffing, Christmas pudding and a host of other goodies. Hampers get delivered to the homes of recipients by congregation members from the nearest participating church.

One local resident commented after receiving confirmation that she and her family would be getting a hamper this year; "I am so grateful. This hamper will assist us greatly especially since funds are low and I am genuinely struggling to make ends meet amidst mounting debt."

Pastor Ayo Adedoyin, head of community at Jesus House, said: "It's a great combination. The power of music is a great way to uplift people's spirits and share the message of love at Christmas. The studio is also open to young people in the borough to access a free service that would normally cost an arm and a leg."
                                                                                                    
Over 300 volunteers are helping pack and distribute hampers over the next two days.

To find out more about Christmas Lunch on Jesus or to make a donation, visit www.christmaslunchonjesus.com