Divisive politics of Reform unwanted

THE story of a local dad caught attempting to steal a jar of food from the supermarket is haunting me.

- MONICA LENNON

THE story of a local dad caught attempting to steal a jar of food from the supermarket is haunting me.

With hungry mouths waiting at home, the man found himself in a desperate situation.

Despite the price tag being less than a quid, he simply didn’t have the money.

It was only the intervention of a vigilant shop worker that stopped him from making a costly mistake.

Recognising the man’s distress, the supermarket staff made sure he left with a bag of groceries to feed his children.

An incident that could easily have ended up with handcuffs and court dates must have conjured up feelings of shame and relief.

But the story didn't end there. When the man was back on his feet, he returned to the super market to donate a bag of shopping for the local food bank such was the strength of his gratitude to the shop workers who saw his need and vulnerability.

Small acts of kindness can be lifechanging.

Thank goodness for the people in our communities who go the extra mile to help neighbours and strangers.

Thankfully, most of us have never experienced the levels of poverty or financial distress that would force us to the brink of stealing food.