ROTARIANS in Knowle and Dorridge are wrapping their arms around some of the most vulnerable people in the area through their Winter Warmth Campaign.
The club has joined forces with two charities and have provided thousands of essential food items, clothing, blankets and heaters to families and individuals in need.
It donated £1,600-worth of oil-filled radiators, as well as electric blankets and quilts, for Age UK Solihull to distribute for emergency use to those who are at most risk from the cold.
Chief executive at Age UK, Anne Hastings, said: “We are so grateful to the Rotary Club of Knowle and Dorridge for purchasing these items for the Solihull Winter Warmth Campaign.
“We had started to run out of heaters which are so vital to our winter warmth response, as vulnerable older people can become quickly affected by the cold.
“This can lead to poor outcomes for their health and wellbeing. Being able to loan out these safe forms of heating while we sort fixing their heating systems is a lifesaver that makes a real difference to vulnerable Solihull households.”
The Rotarians, with the support of The Cricket Club of Knowle and Dorridge, have also managed to collect more than 70 children’s coats for the Children’s Storehouse in Solihull, a charity that supports families experiencing financial hardship.
Before Christmas, residents responded to the Club’s appeal for donations on behalf of Aston and Nechells Foodbank, in Birmingham, resulting in more than 2,000 food items, weighing 740kg, enough to support 50 single people or 20 families for three days during a crisis.
It comes at a time of record demand for the service locally.
Rotary Club of Knowle and Dorridge president, Robert Pannifer said: “The Winter Warmth campaign is helping to keep our vulnerable residents safe this winter. I’d urge friends, relatives and neighbours of ‘at risk’ residents to keep an eye out during the remaining winter months and call the Age UK Solihull helpline if there’s any concern.”
For free advice, information and practical assistance including emporary heaters, electric blankets, grants, finding a trades person or offering general advice on benefits, debt or finding the cheapest energy supplier contact the dedicated Winter Warmth Campaign at Age UK Solihull, which is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm,on 0121 704 8080
