Local MP commends organisations supporting those in need this Christmas
Warinder Juss MP, Member of Parliament for Wolverhampton West, has praised the incredible efforts of local organisations working tirelessly to ensure those in need don’t go hungry this festive season.
Last week, Mr Juss visited two remarkable charities; Friend of Di’s Kitchen and The Good Shepherd, to see first-hand the vital work they do to support people experiencing hardship across Wolverhampton and the surrounding areas.
Friends of Di’s Kitchen is a non-profit charitable organisation with a vision to provide a three-course cold or chilled meal, or food for meal preparation, completely free of charge to those in need across the city. Their commitment ensures that individuals and families facing difficult times have access to nutritious food during the festive period and beyond.
Jan Kellond, Chairperson of Friends of Di’s Kitchen said: “Friends of Di’s Kitchen were honoured that Warinder visited us last Thursday at my home (our headquarters) in Penn and was involved in preparing Christmas bags for our guests - before helping to load them into seventeen volunteer drivers cars so they could be delivered to 993 people across the city.
Although we were delighted to be able to offer our guests extra food, chocolate treats and, in some cases toiletries, for the festive period our service operates for 40 weeks of the year and, since March 2020, we have supported over 166,000 residents of our great city with food”.
Meanwhile, The Good Shepherd, which has been serving the community since 1972, continues its mission to end homelessness, support recovery, and create pathways out of poverty. Their services range from food provision and homeless outreach to financial wellbeing and employment support. At the Good Shepherd, it often starts with a meal – but that meal is the first step towards positive change.
On Friday 17th, The Good Shepherd served over 155 traditional Christmas dinners with all the trimmings and pudding to people experiencing homelessness and poverty in Wolverhampton.
Tom Hayden, Chief Executive at the Good Shepherd said: "At Good Shepherd, we believe that a meal can be the first step towards lasting change. It’s how we show hospitality, build trust, and create the foundation for our key workers to support individuals on their journey to recovery.
"Christmas can be an especially difficult time for those we help, with feelings of isolation often heightened. That’s why our work is so important, to bring hope and practical support to those who might otherwise go without.
"We’re incredibly proud of our mission to end homelessness, support recovery, and create pathways out of poverty. We were delighted to welcome Warinder to see some of work first-hand, and we’re grateful for his continued support."
Their efforts were supported by generous donations and partnerships, including SI Group for the donation of turkeys, Brian and Springdale Methodist Church for their ongoing support with fresh fruit and vegetables, Head Chef Luke and his team over at Molineux Stadium and of course their amazing team of volunteers and staff, including Head Cook Louise, at the Good Shepherd.
Speaking after the visits, Warinder Juss MP said: “Christmas is a time for compassion and community. The work of Friends of Di’s Kitchen and The Good Shepherd is nothing short of inspiring. They remind us that even in challenging times, kindness and generosity can make a real difference. I commend these organisations and their volunteers for ensuring that those most in need are not forgotten this festive season.”
Mr Juss encouraged residents and businesses to continue supporting local charities, highlighting that their work is essential not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.
