Successfully strengthening our engagement across Bedfordshire with thanks to The National Lottery Community Fund This winter, we have been able to reach further into communities across Bedfordshire as all 2,000 of our Warm in Winter gift bags were packed by volunteers in the county. Delivering this project in the areas that the gift bags are being distributed, strengthens the engagement that we have with community organisations and groups working with older people and ultimately increases the difference we can make to those who need help and support. Thanks to the The National Lottery Community Fund, whose grant has supported the role of our Community Engagement Manager for Bedfordshire, we have been able to build and grow our relationships across the county. Talking of our partnership with Marsh Farm Futures, Luton, Sarah Neighbour, our Community Engagement Manager for Bedfordshire commented, “We are hugely grateful to Heng Khoo and everyone at Marsh Farm Futures for their kindness in facilitating our packing sessions and helping to engage the local community with our work. Their support has been instrumental in extending our reach across Bedfordshire, so that we can connect with more community groups and local agencies to help those who are vulnerable and struggling this winter”. Running sessions in October and November, we were thrilled to welcome so many volunteers, including individuals, corporate, community and council teams as well as Marsh Farm Futures trustees and tenants, local councillors and the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. Heng Khoo, Chief Operating Officer, Marsh Farm Futures, spoke of our partnership, “Marsh Farm Futures are delighted to partner with Small Acts of Kindness and this year’s Warm in Winter gift bag campaign. We know how vital these gift bags will be to vulnerable, older people in the county and are especially happy to enhance our partnership by distributing the bags for the second year”. As well as packing the gift bags in Luton, Marsh Farm House acted as a collection point for our community partners, creating a much easier and efficient process. Our community partner, Jenny Gallucci from Houghton Regis Helpers, told us, “ Our volunteers who helped pack gift bags at Futures House really enjoyed the session. Distributing the bags to those who struggle in the winter months, both individuals on their own and couples in our community who face hardship and medical conditions, has been rewarding for our volunteers and a pleasure to bring some warmth of friendship to others. You do such great work. ” Having only expanded our reach into Bedfordshire 2 years ago, we are extremely proud to have been able to achieve the delivery of our project so successfully, and thank The National Lottery Community Fund, Marsh Farm Futures, all of our volunteers and community partners for their incredible support and kindness. Manage Cookie Preferences