SNOW: Kind-hearted volunteers offer support across the area

Acts of Kindness is a community group on Facebook with over 4,200 members who carry out tasks around their local areas.

Organiser Kerry Snuggs asked members to volunteer if they could get to the shops for those who are unable because of the severe weather and require essentials.

Kerry said: ‘We have over 25 people ready on hand to reach out to those in need of basic essentials during the snow. This will no doubt rise as the day goes on.

‘It’s important to reach out to those who need support and for them not to feel alone.

‘We as a community can help our neighbours in a time of need.

‘Small differences make a huge difference to someone’s life.’

The group started in 2014 after a lady, whose husband had sadly passed away from cancer, lost her wedding rings

Kerry said: ‘I set up a group and started with about 20 people.

‘The rings were subsequently found by an elderly couple living nearby.

‘I kept the group open and it has now grown to 4,200 followers and we are becoming a registered charity.’

The group have co-ordinated response to fires and adverse weather conditions across Portsmouth, Gosport, Fareham, Locks Heath, Whiteley, Titchfield and Warsash.

Kerry added: ‘We support those living in poverty by using a community response to recycle items to the benefit those in need and we support several organisations including social services, women’s refuge and homeless shelters

‘We carry out Acts of Kindness in the community and do community projects.

‘Essentially it’s to bring back community spirit.’

To join the group and volunteer to help in your local area visit the Facebook group or go to the website.