A long running Warwickshire Christmas initiative is once again providing practical support and festive comfort to young people leaving care, with former foster carer Norma Wilson preparing 203 hampers for care leavers and families across the county.
The project, now in its 27th year, is supported by Warwickshire County Council Children and Families Service, local charity Evelyn’s Gift, and a range of community groups and businesses. This year, 150 hampers are being delivered to care leavers, 33 to their children, and 20 to families in Norma’s village.
Norma began the initiative while working with Warwickshire County Council’s Rugby Children’s Team. What started as a small personal effort has grown into a county wide tradition. During her time as a foster carer, she looked after more than 140 children, giving her direct experience of the challenges faced by young people moving into independent living without family support.
Each hamper includes essential items such as socks, gloves, food, and toothbrushes, alongside festive treats. Every parcel also contains a handwritten card signed “Love from Norma and people who care,” offering reassurance to recipients during Christmas.
Norma said: “It brings me great pleasure to provide hampers to those in need, especially when they may not get anything else at Christmas. I do it every year and have done for 27 years. It makes me happy to hear that they like them.”
Evelyn’s Gift, founded in memory of Helen Smith’s daughter, plays a central role by coordinating donations from businesses and individuals across Warwickshire. The charity helps ensure each hamper is thoughtfully prepared and fully stocked.
Norma also thanked long standing supporters including Puddle Duck Nursery, local businesses, and charities. She highlighted the contributions of Calvin Smith, Warwickshire County Council’s Head of Family Help, along with council staff who raised funds through sponsored charity walks, including a climb of Mount Snowdon.
Councillor George Finch, Leader of Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, praised the initiative’s impact. He said: “Norma’s work is a true testament to the power of kindness and community spirit. Her hampers bring not just practical support but also hope and a sense of belonging to young people who might otherwise feel alone at Christmas. We are so grateful for her incredible dedication and the support of everyone who contributes to this wonderful initiative.”
The hamper project sits alongside other local efforts to support care leavers, including sponsored climbs and gift appeals. In some years, these campaigns have collected more than 1,000 donated items, reflecting sustained community involvement across the county.
Norma hopes the initiative continues to inspire others to get involved. She said: “The more people we can help, the better. Whether it’s donating money, organising workplace collections, or volunteering time, every contribution makes a difference. Christmas is a time for giving, and even the smallest gesture can mean the world to someone in need.”