The parcels were donated through a food collection initiative organised by Opus People Solutions, Walsall Council's managed service provider for temporary recruitment. The campaign was led by Opus' Qualified Social Work team, with colleagues from across the Vertas Group and key suppliers coming together to donate food and everyday essentials.
Items including pasta, rice, sauces, tinned vegetables, biscuits and toiletries were collected over several weeks before being packed into parcels at North Family Hub in Blakenall. The parcels will now be distributed through Walsall's Family Hubs and Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, helping families access additional support during the school holidays.
“ This initiative is a wonderful example of organisations working together to support local families.
Councillor Lisa Jones, Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Skills at Walsall Council
While every parcel contains practical essentials, it also represents the generosity and kindness of everyone who contributed. I'd like to thank Opus People Solutions, the Vertas Group and all those involved for helping make a positive difference to families across Walsall this summer.
Our Family Hubs and Holiday Activities and Food programme provide vital support throughout the year, and partnerships like this help ensure families can access the additional help they need when they need it most. “
“ We're always keen to add value wherever we can, particularly in the communities we work alongside.
James Carr, Head of Social Work Recruitment at Opus People Solutions
Following last year's donation, we gained a greater understanding of the challenges some families face during the school holidays and the vital role the Walsall HAF Programme and Family Hubs play in supporting local families. That inspired us to bring colleagues, friends and family together once again this year.
The programme provides invaluable support to children and families throughout the school holidays, and we're pleased to be able to support the fantastic work being delivered across the borough. “
In recent weeks, the Opus team, colleagues across the Vertas Group and key suppliers have collected donations of food and toiletry items such as pasta, rice, sauces, tinned vegetables, biscuits and personal care items.
The initiative supports the ambitions of Feeding Walsall's Future: The Food Plan (2025-2030)(opens in new tab) by helping to ensure that local families can access healthy, nutritious food during the school holidays. By supporting households facing food insecurity and promoting good food choices, the initiative contributes to Walsall’s vision of creating a fairer, healthier and more sustainable food system for all residents.
