CARING staff members at Acorns Children’s Hospice have hit the streets in a bid to support families who are isolated because of the Coronavirus crisis.
Families supported by Acorns can face many challenges and uncertainties on a day to day basis, as they care for children with complex medical needs. The coronavirus pandemic has meant many made the decision to self-isolate immediately for their own protection.
Specialist care teams from Acorns hospices have identified families who may be vulnerable, cut-off or isolated and are putting together much-needed care packages of essentials such as toiletries, baby milk and food.
Dee McCann, volunteers manager at Acorns, said: “This is a unique situation which has plunged the whole community into crisis mode. At Acorns we’ve jumped into action and are adapting the ways we support families during the pandemic.
“It’s not just physical items. The fact families have continued contact with our trained staff is incredibly important from an emotional well-being point of view. They know they’re not alone and we’re doing all we can to help them.”
Generous local community organisations including the Real Junk Food Project Central and Foodcycle Longbridge have joined forces with Acorns and have delivered supplies for the hospice staff to allocate to families.
Waitrose in Worcester brought smiles to mums supported by Acorns this Mother’s Day by gifting a beautiful selection of bouquets and chocolates.
“We’re thrilled with the support from the local community organisations. There are so many good and generous people out there.
“This situation is bringing out the best in everyone and, the more we work together, the more we will help the most vulnerable in our local communities.”
Anyone who wishes to donate items to families at Acorns is asked not to visit the hospice in person.
Useful items include tinned food, toiletries, toilet roll, handwash and hand sanitiser, baby milk and nappies
E-mail [email protected] for more.
