Child Friendly Warwickshire

A Warwickshire Christmas hamper initiative continues to bring comfort and joy to care leavers and asylum seekers across Warwickshire, offering vital support to young people facing the challenges of living independently.  

Former foster carer Norma Wilson, with support from Warwickshire County Council’s Children and Families service, local charity Evelyn’s Gift and other community and voluntary groups, has prepared over 230 hampers, each one a heartfelt gesture of kindness and care. 

Norma started preparing hampers over 25 years ago within the Warwickshire County Council’s Rugby Children’s Team and the project has grown to become a much-cherished tradition of giving. Each hamper includes essentials such as socks, gloves, food, and toothbrushes, as well as festive treats and a handwritten card signed “Love from Norma and people who care.” 

Norma draws on her years of experience as a foster carer for Warwickshire County Council, during which she cared for over 140 children. She understands the challenges faced by young people who are learning to live independently, and her hampers are a vital reminder that they are not alone. 

Helen Smith, founder of Evelyn’s Gift, has been a key partner in supporting the initiative. The charity, set up in memory of Helen’s daughter Evelyn, rallies donations from businesses and individuals across Warwickshire, helping to ensure that each hamper is brimming with thoughtfulness. 

Warwickshire County Councillor Sue Markham, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, commended Norma’s remarkable contribution: 

“Norma’s work is a true testament to the power of kindness and community spirit. Her hampers bring not just practical support but also hope and a sense of belonging to young people who might otherwise feel alone at Christmas. We are so grateful for her incredible dedication and the support of everyone who contributes to this wonderful initiative. Special thanks also go to Warwickshire Search and Rescue who helped collect the donations and deliver the Christmas parcels to young people around the county.” 

Norma hopes her story will inspire others to give what they can. She said: “The more people we can help, the better. Whether it’s donating money, organising workplace collections, or volunteering time, every contribution makes a difference. Christmas is a time for giving, and even the smallest gesture can mean the world to someone in need.” 

Norma’s act of kindness is one example of the many things people can do to support themselves and each other at this time. For more information on care leavers, visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/leavingcare 

For more information on young asylum seekers, visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/children-families/unaccompanied-asylum-seeking-children-warwickshire/1 

If you would like to find out more about fostering for Warwickshire, visit https://fostering.warwickshire.gov.uk/