Warm in Winter gift bags delivered to elderly and vulnerable in Hertfordshire
Police and charity join forces to help keep residents warm
Vulnerable and older people in Welwyn Hatfield are being offered Warm in Winter gift bags to help during colder months.
Hertfordshire Constabulary has been delivering the bags as it has teamed up with local charity Small Acts of Kindness, who put together the gifts.
The tote bags contain items like fleece blankets, thermal clothing, soup, porridge, and hot drinks, alongside a pack with details of services, support, and activities for older residents.
Maureen Morris, a recipient and resident in Welwyn Hatfield said: “It means that we're not forgotten and it’s so very nice of you to bring it around.”
“I'm really happy. Thank you”, she added.
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One of our reporters joined Hertfordshire Police and Small Acts of Kindness in their deliveries...
Lynne Misner, CEO of Small Acts of Kindness said: “I think we're in the middle of an almost perfect storm in a bad way. The rising costs of energy, the ever increasing costs of living and last year's changes to eligibility for winter fuel payment have meant that a lot of older people are really struggling to keep warm at home.
She added: “They're making choices that is being talked about a lot on paper, between heating and eating, but that this is the reality for a lot of older people.”
PCSO Casey Phillips from the Welwyn Hatfield Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This initiative is popular every year and we receive lots of emails from kind residents nominating their neighbours to receive a Warm in Winter gift bag.
“Helping vulnerable residents is an important part of neighbourhood policing and many of the recipients are identified through our year-round community engagement work. It’s always a pleasure to knock on their door to surprise them and let them know that we care.”
Anyone who would benefit from the gift bags, or knows someone who might, is encouraged to get in touch with Small Acts of Kindness.