Supporting a Homeless Veteran

Lisa received a message from Councillor Josie Pritchard, Armed Forces Champion for Wakefield Council, asking if we could provide a TV for a previously homeless veteran she was supporting. He had ‘fallen through the cracks’ of the system and had been made homeless through no fault of his own. Josie arranged temporary accommodation for him, and the only thing he asked for was a TV—to give him something to pass the time.

After digging a bit deeper, Josie realised this wasn’t all he needed. As an ex-serviceman, he was too proud to ask for help and was trying to manage on his own. The Foundation stepped in and provided him with a full care package: a microwave, kettle, toaster, pots and pans, crockery, cutlery, an iron, bedding, pillows, and other essential items. Josie personally delivered the items, and she told us he was overcome with emotion and extremely grateful for the support he received.

Paying Kindness Forward

On the other side of the coin, we were recently visited by a woman who wanted to donate brand-new items to our shop. Her sister-in-law had gifted her an old car and refused any payment for it. Knowing that her sister-in-law regularly supported our shop, she decided to give back in another way—by purchasing £200 worth of essential items for our care packages. Thanks to her generosity, we now have toasters, kettles, pans, cooking pots, crockery, cutlery, towels, and other kitchen essentials ready to support those in need.

How You Can Help

These stories highlight why the Community Foundation Wakefield District exists. Whether it’s ensuring a family has warm bedding, helping a veteran get back on his feet, or providing essential items to those in need, we rely on the kindness and generosity of our supporters.

Your donations make stories like these possible. Every contribution makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community is left without the basics they need to rebuild their lives.