HUNDREDS of winter bags are set to be donated to help residents across the Braintree district as part of a special programme.

Community360, First Stop Centre and Braintree Village have joined forces to bring some winter cheer to those in need this winter.

More than 700 winter bags have been packed with goodies donated by Braintree Village with the help of staff at all three organisations.

The team has been on the road this week, distributing the packs with the help of Hedingham School, whose bus has helped to make the deliveries.

The winter packs contain items such as vacuum flasks, gloves, hats, soup, biscuits, plus other useful aids for keeping warm.

This is the sixth winter that Community360 has operated its Winter Resilience Programme and the number of people it has helped has increased every year.

CEO Tracy Rudling said: “We are delighted to be initiating and supporting the Winter Resilience Programme once again and would like to say a huge thank you to Braintree Village for their generous sponsorship and First Stop Centre for their support.

“The Winter Resilience Programme is great because it not only tackles the serious stuff, like staying warm and connected and reminding eligible people of the importance of vaccination, but the fun ways in which you can boost your mental and physical health by going for walks in the amazing parks across the district.”

Braintree Village boss Josef O’Sullivan added: “We are honoured to sponsor Community360’s winter campaign, supporting those who are struggling with the effects of the cost-of-living crisis.

“The Winter Wellness Packs being distributed by our teams provide essential items, which will be greatly appreciated during this challenging time.”

First Stop is a community drop-in centre based in Braintree which has been serving the Braintree community for more than 40 years. 

Rachel Stone, from First Stop Centre, said: “Our mission is to work with the disadvantaged to improve their lives. 

“We started a project with Braintree Village to provide bags to distribute to those in need of warmth, particularly the homeless and the elderly several years ago. 

“Community360 has run a similar scheme providing bags to other agencies to distribute, so this year it has been great to have worked together to provide the 700 winter bags to those across the district.”