Hampers for Heroes look to expand services

A not-for-profit organisation which provides care packages to frontline workers is appealing for more businesses and volunteers to support its outreach.

Hampers for Heroes is a Community Interest Company which sends care packages to healthcare workers, carers and other frontline workers across the West Midlands, acknowledging their continued support and efforts in the fight against Covid-19.

In addition to the care packages, Hampers for Heroes also provides support services such as coaching and counselling to those impacted.

The business was founded by Victoria Hanson in March 2020 and has so far provided more than 2,000 team hampers, reaching in excess of 40,000 NHS and key workers across the region.

The community initiative is run almost completely by volunteers and, with the Covid-19 crisis continuing, they are appealing for more people and groups to get involved, particularly those in the business community who may be looking for a local cause to support.

Victoria (pictured) said: “The work that is being carried out by our frontline workers is absolutely essential, but we know from news reports that it is taking its toll on some workers ' wellbeing and mental health.

“Hampers for Heroes was set up to not only say thank you for all of their work but also to encourage them in their efforts. It 's also been a wonderful way for our wider community to volunteer and give back over this period which we know many people are wanting to do.

“We are always looking more volunteers and would encourage anyone who thinks they can help to get in touch. ”

Hampers for Heroes is looking to expand its services nationally in the months ahead. Additionally they will be opening pop up shop and well-being hub in Touchwood on 12 April to raise visibility of the work they are doing as well as fundraise.

NatWest has donated £7,000 to Hampers for Heroes as well as an additional £1,000 specifically to support hampers for staff at working in the ICU the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

Abe Tilling, regional managing director of Corporate and Commercial Banking at NatWest, said: “When Victoria first told me what she and the team in the West Midlands were doing, all from their own homes and garages to make a small but very special difference to the people right on the frontline of the fight against the pandemic every day here in the West Midlands, it just felt this was something really special.

“We are delighted we have been able to help Victoria and the team, and know they are providing a much-needed service across our communities over this period. ”