Housebuilder's £600 donation to Staffordshire food charity

Based in Stafford, Hearts and Hands was initially set up during the pandemic to help with those that were struggling with the aim of supporting anyone that may be experiencing financial difficulties. 

The charity is entirely operated by volunteers and donates food parcels weekly to ease the burden of working households within the local community.

David Wilson Homes’ donation has been staggered over the last calendar year to provide a monthly contribution of £50, dedicated to providing families and children with food parcels in times of need.

Lorraine Conkey, Co-Founder of Hearts and Hands, said: “We are immensely grateful for the generous support from David Wilson Homes over the past year. Its monthly donations have made a significant impact on our ability to carry out our mission and serve those in need.

“Thanks to the housebuilder’s commitment, we have been able to provide more food hampers to working families struggling in this financial climate. This final payment marks the end of a successful partnership, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for the contribution. Its support has truly made a difference and we will continue with our positive impact on our community.”

According to research by The Food Foundation, due to the inflation of the price of food during the cost-of-living crisis, many people and families from a range of backgrounds are struggling.

The research indicated that 20% of households with children, 38% of households with an adult affected by disability, 15% of those in employment and 24% of non-white households are experiencing food insecurity.

Initially founded in 2020, over the past four years, Hearts and Hands has helped over 3,000 families and donated over 5,000 food parcels, making a tremendous difference to the lives of many around Stafford.

As well as the weekly food parcels the charity is donating, Hearts and Hands has several surplus food tables in the area outside its volunteer’s homes, which saves on the food making its way to landfill sites.

Stalls at local events also help the charity to raise funds and continue providing its services.

Helen Lewis, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes Mercia, said: “Hearts and Hands is carrying out a vital service for the local community, and we are delighted to have been able to assist in its mission to provide people with essential support.

“As a leading housebuilder, we do our best to help organisations in the areas close to our developments, and it’s of the utmost importance that we work closely with local people to see how we can best help them.”