Cheshire College is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its heartwarming Festive Hamper initiative, which has donated over 2,000 hampers to students over the past five years. This year’s effort has earned recognition from local Members of Parliament, highlighting the significant impact the scheme has on students during the festive season.
The Festive Hampers which were filled with food, toiletries, and other treats, are made possible through the generosity of several local suppliers.
Ruth Szolkowska, Vice Principal (Innovation, Curriculum and Quality) commented “We are incredibly grateful to the local businesses who have supported us this year, including Dunsters, Proper Cornish, Harlech, Turner and Wright, Barr, and Mornflake. Their contributions make a real difference, ensuring our students have access to a variety of essential and festive items during the holiday season”
The hampers were offered to students receiving the enhanced bursary, as well as those referred by the College’s support services. The initiative is designed to relieve some of the financial pressures faced by many students, ensuring that everyone can participate in the celebrations and feel supported during the festive period.
Cheshire College’s commitment to student welfare has garnered praise from local MPs, with both Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, and Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough, acknowledging the positive impact of the scheme.
Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich commented “Initiatives like this are vital, especially at Christmas, as they offer extra support for families who may need it. It’s fantastic to see the College and students involved in a creative project that not only supports the community but also showcases their talent.”
He added “Projects like this strengthen the link between the College and the local area, demonstrating that the College is more than just an academic institution; it’s truly the heart of the community.”
Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough added “It was heartwarming to see the real effort and care that goes into these hampers from a huge number of people involved with the college. It is a really important initiative ensuring that people are not forgotten that students are given the opportunity to give something back to the community and that this can make a real difference to a person’s festive experience.”
At the heart of the initiative is the involvement of the College’s students. Those from the Health and Social Care department were involved in packing the hampers along with the Student Senate, gaining valuable practical experience while giving back to the College community.
Additionally, Hospitality students from the Academy Restaurant used their culinary skills to prepare special items for the hampers, highlighting the College’s emphasis on practical learning and student engagement.
The Christmas Hamper scheme reflects Cheshire College’s broader commitment to supporting its students in every aspect of their lives. The College strives to ensure that all students have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and personally.
The scheme is a prime example of how the College continues to prioritise student well-being, helping to ease financial burdens and ensure all students can enjoy the festive season.
For more information about how Cheshire College supports its students visit www.ccsw.ac.uk
