Wolverhampton church receives warm pack donations to help locals combat the cold this winter

The emergency intervention packs have been designed for those who need it most and will be distributed by the church this month, with some being donated to local homelessness charity Good Shepherd Wolverhampton. Delivered by fuel poverty specialists, Cadent Foundation, the packs include essential items to help keep people warm, including hot water bottles, gloves, scarves, hats and blankets.

St Joseph’s RC Church on Willenhall Road is part of the St John Henry Newman parish, four catholic churches working together to serve people of Bilston, Darlaston, Willenhall and Wolverhampton (East Park).

Fr Craig Fullard, Parish Priest said: “We know that there are a number of people who will be worried about keeping warm and safe this winter. Small gestures, like the Cadent Foundation Warm Packs, will make a big difference to those struggling and we are very grateful to receive the packages.”

In the UK, it is estimated that around six million people live in fuel poverty, meaning they spend over 10 per cent of their income on energy to stay warm and healthy. According to National Energy Action, 23 per cent of households in Wolverhampton North are currently living in fuel poverty.

Ranjit Blythe, Managing Director at the Cadent Foundation, said: “Community centres are vital for so many reasons. From helping those living in isolation, to providing financial advice and support, we know how much of an impact they can have on people living in vulnerable situations.

“While our work focuses on long term solutions to ending fuel poverty, we know that people require immediate help. That’s why, for the first time, this year we have created 5,000 Cadent Foundation Warm Packs to distribute to local centres across the country that will make a huge difference.”

Cadent Foundation works with Charity partners to help households find sustainable solutions to fuel poverty and ensure people are safe and warm in their homes.