A DEDICATED Warwickshire support worker is bringing some Christmas cheer to care leavers and asylum seekers.
Norma Wilson, who works for Warwickshire County Council, has put together Christmas hampers to help asylum seekers or those who have come out of foster care and now live alone.
As well as gifts, the hampers also contain items such as socks, gloves, soup, toothbrushes and sheets.
Norma began her goodwill gesture for the Warwickshire Fostering Service nearly 20 years ago and the number of hampers she fills continues to rise. This Christmas she has packed nearly 220 hampers compared to 175 in 2017.
Over the years Norma has gathered a following and a steady stream of donations continue to come to her from neighbours, friends, work colleagues and local businesses.
She said: “It is a privilege to put these hampers together for the county’s young people who have little support at this time of year.
“The gifts are always well-received and it brings great joy knowing we have made a difference, however small. I wouldn’t be able to do it without support from the kind people who donate to the scheme. I have met so many wonderful, generous people through doing this which is truly inspiring.”
Norma is also a placement support carer and has fostered 130 children.
She has also helped arrange a yearly Christmas party for carers, their birth children and foster children, welcoming 180 adults and children annually.
Council leader Izzi Seccombe said: “I really want to thank Norma for her commitment to providing Warwickshire care leavers with something special this Christmas. Her commitment and selflessness really does Warwickshire County Council proud.
“As well as spreading the Christmas cheer, Norma’s actions provide those most vulnerable in our county with feeling that they’re not alone and that someone cares.”
