Local residents have gotten together to hand out drawstring bag supply packs for the homeless of Birmingham this winter.
Kerry Lenihan, from Yardley came up with the idea for Operation Drawstring whilst “discussing the rise in homelessness.” She said:
“I had this idea about handing out packs to help the homeless through winter, the drawstring idea kind of followed on naturally.”
With homelessness on the rise nationwide, Operation Drawstring is aiming to give “every homeless person in Birmingham a drawstring bag.” The bags will contain food, toiletries and “a little festive cheer.”
In order to achieve this, Kerry said:
“I’m working with local homeless charities and we’ll drop off some bags depending on their requirements. We’ll also give them out at food clinics and I’m organising a street team to distribute on the streets.”
The efforts of Operation Drawstring have even brought together two age-old rivals as Birmingham City and Aston Villa football clubs are both involved in the cause.
“Aston Villa have been great allowing me to run a collection point at the upcoming Watford game. It’s even been shared on some Birmingham City fan pages, with lots of support coming in.
“As for the homeless community, they are very appreciative of the generosity of the city, particularly at a time such as Christmas, and the cold winter months.”
As for what people can do to help out the cause, there will be a volunteer briefing on Sunday, November 22nd at mac Birmingham; whilst the deadline for handing in supplies is December 4th and December 11th for whole bags.
They are also hosting a charity quiz night this Thursday at Boston Tea Party.
The post Operation Drawstring giving practical help to get the homeless through the winter appeared first on Birmingham Eastside.