Cradley Heath charity's appeal as freezing conditions hit vulnerable (From Halesowen News)

Cradley Heath charity's appeal as freezing conditions hit vulnerable

2:46pm Tuesday 7th February 2012 in Local

A CRADLEY HEATH charity has launched an urgent appeal for curtains, blankets and clothing as the cold weather takes its toll on the needy.

Loaves n Fishes has been inundated with requests from the homeless, elderly and people moving from hostels into private accommodation who desperately need clothes and bedding to keep warm as freezing conditions bite.

The Christian charity based in Waterfall Lane gives out furniture and clothing for free and is staffed by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Founder Anna Hartland said: “We are getting people from as far away as Birmingham because we give the clothes away for free and some people just can’t afford to buy them from charity shops.

“We desperately need curtains and blankets to help people keep the draught out as well as clothing including warm coats.

“we have had homeless people coming in off the street. It is so much more urgent now that we help people straight away because it is so cold.”

The charity is looking to expand its clothing ministry, which is based and is seeking a premises to move it into. It has asked Sandwell Council for help and is also appealing to any businesses which have spare premises to get in touch.

Anna said: “If a local firm has an empty property they have to pay rates whereas we get them for free because we are a charity.”

Call Loaves n Fishes on 0121 559 7443.