HOMELESS people in South Birmingham will be gifted handmade scarves this winter thanks to the efforts of a local care home resident.
Iris Bessent, 95, who lives at Cofton Park Manor Care Home on Lickey Road, was so moved by stories from street pastor Barry Jukes that she started making special knitwear.
Fellow residents and the care home team have collected coats, jumpers, blankets and gloves for Barry – who works with unhoused people – to give to those in need.
In addition, Iris has donated a collection of colourful, handknitted scarves to the haul and is rallying fellow residents to join her knitting group to participate too.
Iris said: “We are very lucky here at Cofton Park Manor because we have a wonderfully warm home, enjoy lovely meals, and live surrounded by friends.
“However, we know that many are suffering, and there are people without anywhere to go or call a home.
“I hope our donations bring some cheer this Christmas.”
Barry thanked everyone for their donations, which will be distributed to people experiencing homelessness.
Barry said: “Iris has touched my heart with her kind gesture and hard work.”
Meanwhile, Wendy Sibley, the regional community relations lead at Cofton Park Manor, praised the efforts of Barry and his fellow volunteers in the local area.
Wendy said: “We were all very moved when Barry told us about the work the street pastors do to help those in need.
“We put some really nice items together, and then, of course, Iris went the extra mile.
“She has encouraged others to join the knit and natter sessions here at the home, and I think there will be more scarves to come!”
