Children facing hardship in the Craigavon and surrounding areas have received ‘Winter Warmer’ packs following a £1,200 donation from gas and electricity company, Energia.

Made up of essential thermal clothing, including a hat, gloves, socks and a scarf, the kits are being distributed to those children identified as being most in need by Bluebell Trust.

Other ‘Winter Warmer’ essentials include a warm winter coat, pyjamas, a thermal fleece blanket, and a hot water bottle, with each pack costing – on average – between £60-£80.

The packs are an essential way for young people to stay warm during the winter months, especially during prolonged colder spells when temperatures drop to low, single figures.

Covering the Craigavon, Lurgan and Portadown areas, the charity was established back in 2022 by a group of women with the aim of identifying – and supporting – those children and families facing financial difficulties in covering essential, school-related expenses.

By assisting those individuals and families struggling with the cost of living, Bluebell Trust volunteers help to reduce stress and worry, allowing parents to focus on both stability and care, whilst ensuring children can participate fully in education and their social lives.

Additionally, volunteers at Bluebell Trust help through community outreach initiatives, working directly with families in need to provide immediate relief, including donating food parcels, clothing and other essentials for families living in disadvantaged circumstances.

Maxine Chambers – the Chairperson of Bluebell Trust – said: “A heartfelt thank you to Energia for their incredible generosity. With their £1,200 donation, we have been able to reach local children with our Winter Warmer packs. By doing do, we have spread warmth, comfort, and kindness throughout our community.”

The charity was nominated to receive funding through Energia’s Helping Hands initiative by company employees Will Anderson, Matthew Hastings, Stephen Puddefoot and Sheena Negro-Donnelly, allowing a total of 20 packs to be handed out to children.

Helping Hands is an employee-led initiative that gives workers the chance to nominate an organisation of their choice to receive a donation, with the financial support intended to either improve a service or allow the excellent work they perform to continue.

Matthew Hastings said: “Through our Helping Hands initiative, we’re proud to support the incredible work of the Bluebell Trust and help make a real difference for children and families facing hardship in our local communities.

“Knowing these Winter Warmer packs will provide comfort, warmth and reassurance during the coldest months shows the power of small actions coming together. It is something we are genuinely proud to be part of at Energia.”