The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Ken Wood, dropped in to support a campaign helping feed Birmingham families most in need this Christmas.

The Hungry Hampers campaign provides food, essentials and seasonal treats to local families who rely on free school meals.

Since 2019, The Education Network, based in Vicarage Road, Edgbaston, and Pertemps Network Group, which has its headquarters in Meriden, have raised thousands of pounds and supported hundreds of families who may otherwise have struggled to have the merriest of Christmases – and this year is no exception.

This team has been busy collecting donations shopping, wrapping and delivering hampers, raffle prizes, and other vital resources, to local schools, ensuring that children and their families have the support they need during the festive season.

Marie Quarterman, Director of The Education Network, said

“Every year, I am saddened by the increased need from our local community.

“My spirits are then lifted by the superhuman fundraising efforts of Harry Chase and Danielle Allen in my office who, together with our community, make sure that we reach families when they need it most. It was amazing to have the Lord Mayor call in also to lend his support.

“Thank you does not seem enough to say.”

They plan is to have raised £5,000 by Christmas, with help from Pertemps Network Group, which is matching donations pound-for-pound to double the impact of every penny.

The team is set to deliver even more hampers and resources next week (w/c Dec 16).