"It's just built in me to help others" Says Victor

An injured veteran is helping Devon and Cornwall residents during COVID-19 lockdown by delivering emergency food supplies.

Victor Boumonte and his Frontline Veterans Support team are working alongside Devon and Cornwall Food Action, a charity that supplies food in emergency situations, to deliver essential supplies to those in need.

“We’ve supported thousands of people so far,” said former soldier Victor, who served with the Devonshire and Dorset Regiment for seven years.

“People are often in tears when we turn up and are always so thankful for the help. We’ve had that kind of reaction throughout the community. People are just happy that someone is there.”

Frontline Veterans Support is a community group that was established by veterans to give ex-Servicemen and
women, and their families, the tools to learn to live and cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental or physical disabilities.

After just a few weeks, the team had delivered almost 500 tons of food, made up in delivery boxes containing fresh bread, fruit and vegetables as well as tins, porridge, pies, pasties and other fresh, frozen and non- perishable items.

Local schools and several members of the area’s police force have benefited from the service, and Victor has also
reached out to Blesma to offer his support to fellow Members.

Blesma Member Malcolm Bright has received supplies from Victor. “I was so grateful that someone was thinking of me,” said the 71 year old.

“I was overwhelmed when Victor arrived with the food box. I’m not classed as vulnerable, but things have been tough. I had an amputation last September, and currently only have a wheelchair despite having to look after
my wife, who is also a full-time wheelchair user. It’s good to know someone is there.”

When asked why he wanted to help, Victor said: “It’s just built in me to help others.”