A MOBILE support vehicle took to the roads of Wyre Forest a day earlier than its planned launch date in order to feed flood workers in Bewdley.
The jiffy truck will be driven by volunteers at Wyre Forest homeless charity HELP to feed rough sleepers in the district.
Half of the truck will be used to hand out drinks, soups, curries, stews and packed lunches to take away, and the other will be stocked up with donated clothing and blankets for those in urgent need.
Charity founder Dave Griffin said: "The mobile support vehicle will allow us to feed the homeless and those in need of a weekend where there are no opportunities for them to get hot food, drinks and emergency clothing and bedding.
"HELP operates a night kitchen on a Monday night and Simply Limitless on a Wednesday night, then there is nothing until HELP's night kitchen on the Monday again.
"We aim to be able to use the vehicle in the winter months on more occasions when we have bad weather."
The vehicle, which was funded by Bromsgrove-based homeless charity Socks and Chocs, came into action a day earlier than expected after the multi-agency command centre for flooding in Bewdley called on its help.
Dave delivered hot drinks and food to members of the Environment Agency and emergency services on Wednesday evening as they again worked through the night to protect the town from flooding.
Dave added: "The vehicle will also be used in emergencies that occur such as the floods in the community.
"We are ready to launch the mobile support unit at very short notice to feed and clothe those that are affected or those that are working to control the disasters.
"We have already been out to flood victims in the vehicle and fed them and given them clothes.
"We would like to say a huge thanks to Socks and Chocs and all those that support them because without their support we wouldn’t be able to do what we do so well."
HELP and The Shuttle are fundraising to support the charity's work with Wyre Forest's Homeless as part of The Shuttle Run appeal.
The campaign is aiming to raise £10,000 to buy a van for the charity to collect and deliver more donations for people in need across the district.
The van will allow the charity to collect larger donations including furniture for people being supported into accommodation.
Donations can be made online by clicking here. Cheques can be sent to Kidderminster Shuttle, Second Floor, Copthall House, 1 New Road, Stourbridge DY8 1PH. Make them payable to HELP and write SHUTTLE RUN on the back.
Bank transfers should go to HELP, Lloyds Bank, account number 38430260, sort code 30-91-91.
Could you, your school or business hold a fundraising event for The Shuttle Run appeal? It could be a charity auction, a bake sale or even a sponsored skydive.
The Shuttle will be running stories each week as we get closer to our target, so email emily.collis@newsquest.co.uk and let us know how you’re supporting the appeal!
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