Doncaster Rovers to open food bank drop-off point to help community amid coronavirus crisis

The Club Doncaster sporting umbrella, which incorporates Rovers, have issued the news in a statement in a bid to help members of the community amid' unprecedented and difficult' times.

A statement read: "With the coronavirus pandemic drastically affecting the lives of people across the country, it is more important than ever that we support the most vulnerable in our football family and wider community.

"In response to the new social distancing guidelines put in place by the government, Club Doncaster has implemented some new measures to support our fans at an unprecedented and difficult time.

"It has been well documented that since the start of the outbreak, foodbank donations have dropped and widespread panic buying has had a dramatic impact on the availability of essential items at supermarkets.

"To support foodbanks, the Keepmoat Stadium will act as a drop-off point for non-perishable food items and toiletries. These can be donated at any of the reception areas, the Club Doncaster Box Office or Club Store and will be donated to members of the community who need it most.

"To support the older members of our community who are being asked to self-isolate for 12 weeks, players, staff and management from across Club Doncaster will be donating an hour every day alongside Doncaster-based charity b:friend to ensure the welfare of the older members of our community this will include making phone calls to those with limited social contact.

"Self-isolation is a daunting prospect for those with anxiety and other mental health problems in which routine and socialising plays a big part in controlling symptoms. We will be working closely with our partners Mind and CALM in order to assist where we can.

"We will continue to provide supporters with updates from the NHS and listen to advice and guidance being offered by Public Health England and the UK Government where possible. Club Doncaster understands the weight of its voice in the local community and will do everything it can to use this voice to support and promote NHS messages.

"We look forward to offering the heroes at the Doncaster NHS service a token of our appreciation for their efforts."