Three high level volunteers have played their part to help a charity reach its target to supply gift bags to the elderly over winter.

Small Acts of Kindness, the Watford-based organisation that reduces the loneliness and isolation for older people, has completed the packing of 7,000 bags containing warm items and vital information about activities and services.

More than 200 volunteers worked in a Covid safe environment during the six-week packing schedule to help the charity achieve its target for supplying the ‘Warm-in-Winter’ bags. These included the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss, the county’s High Sheriff Henry Holland-Hibbert and the elected mayor of Watford Peter Taylor.

Watford Observer:

Peter Taylor helping pack the gift bags

Each gave several hours of their time and were able to see the benefits of a new packing centre at Croxley Park, Watford, where the bags containing clothing, blankets and hot drinks were assembled.

They were also briefed about the awful choice many older people face of either heating their own homes or eating.

Lynne Misner, founder of Small Acts of Kindness, said: “When we first started, six years ago, my family helped me to pack just 50 bags. Since then, including this year’s supreme effort, we have been able to provide more than 30,000 bags for some of Hertfordshire’s most vulnerable older people, many of whom are lonely and isolated.

“This would not be possible without the help and support of our wonderful volunteer family. We are delighted to welcome our three VIP volunteers to this family. Together we are connecting communities with kindness.”

Watford Observer:

Robert Voss also gave up some of his time to help

Small Acts of Kindness is making a special appeal this year to those who receive the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment but don’t really need it.

They are being invited to donate their payment to help vulnerable older people. Details are at www.smallactsofkindness.co.uk/winter-fuel-payments-info.