A KIND-HEARTED former foster care worker has put Santa to shame by sending hundreds of Christmas hampers to young care leavers and asylum seekers in Warwickshire.
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, sent out 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, to bring seasonal smiles to the faces of young people who have recently left care, and young asylum seekers who live alone.
What started as a humble effort has since grown into a much-cherished county-wide tradition of giving that has touched many lives.
Each hamper includes essentials such as socks, gloves, food, toothbrushes, and household provisions to ease the festive financial strain – plus a few festive goodies and a handwritten card signed ‘Love from Norma and people who care’.
Having fostered over 140 children and young people during her time a foster carer for WCC, Norma has gained a unique understanding of the challenges faced by young care-leavers who are learning to live independently – and her hampers are a vital reminder that they are not alone.
She said: “It’s hard for young people to learn to live alone without close family ties, so I want them to feel loved and supported, particularly at this time of year. I want to ensure every care experienced or asylum-seeking young person who needs this little lift to receive one.
“I am given names of the young people and I write them individual cards to go in the parcels signed ‘Love from Norma and people who care’.
“When I started this, I didn’t realise what a difference this small gesture would make, and it warms my heart to know how much it matters to the young recipients. This project is truly important to me, and it is my great pleasure to offer this help.”
Over the years, businesses, individuals and charities have flocked to Norma’s cause – including Helen Smith, founder of Evelyn’s Gift, who has become 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.
Coun Sue Markham, Warwickshire County Council’s spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: “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.
“This time of year is a time for giving and an opportunity for people to think of others in their communities who may be in need. Donating to food banks or charity shops is an easy way to help, and the county has lots of volunteering opportunities for those who want to give their time.”
“Even the smallest gesture can mean the world to someone in need.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/leavingcare for more information on care leavers, and www.warwickshire.gov.uk/children-families/unaccompanied-asylum-seeking-children-warwickshire/1 for more information on young asylum seekers.
Visit https://fostering.warwickshire.gov.uk to find out more about fostering for Warwickshire.
