Pompey in the Community (PitC) were recently awarded the freedom of the city of Portsmouth.
A presentation took place at the Guildhall with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, as well as Councillor Suzy Horton, the deputy group leader of Portsmouth City Council.
It recognised the charity’s fantastic work throughout the Covid pandemic to support local residents who were isolating or shielding.
Clare Martin, CEO of PitC, said: “It’s a real honour and was completely unexpected – the news came totally out of the blue.
"It’s great for the charity to be recognised for all the hard work that was undertaken during the lockdowns."
“Being able to contact all the staff – including those who have since left us – to tell them was amazing.
“It’s great for the charity to be recognised for all the hard work that was undertaken during the lockdowns.
“The staff were on furlough and could easily have stayed at home, but they all stepped up to volunteer and gave 100 per cent.”
PitC worked with HIVE Portsmouth during the pandemic to prepare and deliver food – and other essential goods – to vulnerable people in the city.
They were helped by players and staff at Portsmouth Football Club and also received plenty of donations from local businesses.