SCHOOLCHILDREN have given hundreds of toiletries to those less fortunate in Coventry.
The pupils have donated toiletries to the homeless and those staying in temporary accommodation.
The students at St Anne’s Catholic Primary School in Willenhall have raised funds to buy a variety of toiletry products for 34 homeless people who are in new council-run temporary accommodation at neighboring Chance Avenue Police Station.
The school ran a non-uniform day when pupils could bring in a donation to contribute to an Easter fundraiser.
The tenants have each been given a bag of toiletries with toothpaste, toothbrushes, shower gel, shampoo, razors and aftershave.
One of the residents at the accommodation, Gary, said: “It’s lovely of the school to support us. I hope we can repay the school and do something in return for them.”
Another tenant, David, added: “Its so kind of the children, school and parents to donate all the items – I am very grateful.”
St Anne’s headteacher Rachel Batson said: “We have a really good relationship with the staff at the accommodation. And have been in contact with the managers, even before it opened.
“We’re delighted residents have been able to use the items.”
A year six student at St Anne’s Primary School, Jack, said: “It’s a really good idea because it helps them.”
Another pupil, Rebecca, added: “It’s a good way of showing love to others, it’s a good thing to do.”
Fr Stephen Fawcett, Parish Priest at St Anne’s in Willenhall, said: “The managers have shown great initiative showing us around the accommodation and makes it much easier for us to respond as a church and school.
“It’s those basic things like toiletries that make a difference.
“We wanted to show that they are welcome – it’s the care and support we want to show that is the most important.”
Coun Naeem Akhtar, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet member for Housing and Communities, said: “I’m not surprised about this donation because the vast majority of people are very compassionate.
“It’s especially lovely that the schoolchildren are involved – I think their gesture is wonderful.
“People become homeless for all sorts of complex reasons and we hope many of those who are accommodated can get back on their feet.”
