This year, we joined forces with Halton and St Helens VCA, combining our events to deliver two successful Keep Warm, Keep Well sessions as part of their Winter Coat Appeal.

The events, hosted at Grangeway Community Centre in Runcorn and St Marie's in Widnes (a VCA venue), welcomed around 200 local residents and customers.

Attendees received a range of free winter essentials, including blankets, hot water bottles, hand warmers, gloves, dehumidifiers, socks, and thermal mugs. Sixteen lucky individuals also took home free slow cookers, adding an extra layer of support.

These events offered a fantastic opportunity to connect with the community. Surveys completed by 49 attendees gave an insight into what support they needed, while 10 people signed up for assistance from our Welfare Benefits Team to explore their eligibility for additional benefits.

Adding a flavourful touch, our Bistros Team delighted attendees with tasters of a hearty chicken soup, accompanied by recipe cards promoting healthy, budget-friendly meals. Public Health representatives were also on hand to replace older heated blankets with safer, modern alternatives, ensuring attendees were well-prepared for the colder months.

Thanks to the generosity of Halton and St Helens VCA, every attendee was able to take home at least one free winter coat, helping to keep them warm this season.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to these events. Halton Housing's Social Impact and Engagement Team, Welfare Benefits and Money Advice Team, Neighbourhood Officers, and Bistros Team were joined by our amazing partners: Sure Start to Later Life, Citizens Advice, United Utilities, Halton Carers Centre, Energy Projects Plus, Halton Lodge Family Hub Runcorn, The Red Cross, and Halton Borough Council Public Health.

Your collaboration and support made a meaningful difference to our community this winter.