Hospitalised children across Southwark have received thousands of care packages so they can enjoy “simple comforts” while they’re away from home.
Rapid Relief Team (RRT) UK, a charity providing humanitarian aid worldwide, donated 2,660 packages to children at Evelina London Children’s Hospital and King’s College Hospital.
The packages, which contain snacks and toiletries, were described by one father as “incredible and really well thought out for families”.
The parcels were delivered to parents staying at Ronald McDonald Houses, spaces inside hospitals where families can enjoy home comforts while their children are treated.
Emily Roux, a House Manager at Ronald McDonald House Charities UK, said: “These kits and packs have been so wonderful. The quality of each pack is superb. The families couldn’t believe how lucky they were, and they were so grateful to be receiving them for free.
“I was speaking to the mum of a 16-year-old girl who has recently suffered a cardiac arrest. Her daughter had developed a nail infection, and the care kits provided her with two nail files, which was exactly what she needed to help make her daughter comfortable.
“They also include lots of snacks, which are really appreciated by families, who often don’t have time to shop and cook in between hospital visits.”
In the UK, the RRT team has supported emergency services during major incidents such as the Aberdeen train derailment, Whaley Bridge, the London Bridge attacks and Grenfell. The charity also works with other organisations and services to help tackle homelessness and food poverty.
Rod Buckley, Director at the RRT, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have teamed up with Ronald McDonald House Charities UK to share these ‘care kits’ and ‘comfort snack packs’ with parents and families with children in hospital.
“Families remain the bedrock of our communities and we understand that having a child in hospital is an incredibly painful experience, so we are pleased that we can provide some simple comforts in this most difficult time.”
Parcels were also given to children at Tooting House at St George’s Hospital.