A SALFORD university student has began making unique ‘care packages’ for homeless people in Manchester.
Ellis Martin, a second year psychology and criminology student, told friends she would not be buying Christmas cards for them this year to put her money to better use.
The 20-year-old decided she would spend her money on creating care packages for Manchester’s homeless instead.
“I had £15 of my own money and managed to make 5 care packs which included new socks, plasters, wipes, roll on deodorant, lip balm, some protein bars, crisps and a bottle of water,” said Ellis.
“I just uploaded a picture and a message on Facebook to let everyone know why they wouldn’t be receiving a Christmas card from me, and then the response I got was amazing! So many people wanted to help me make more.”
Following the popularity of Ellis’ idea, she set up a Just Giving page so people could donate towards the packages being made.
Ellis’ aim was to raise £50 but through the efforts of kind donators, £189 has been raised so far since she started the page on Saturday.
The donations have allowed Ellis to add to even more to the care packs such as toothbrushes and toothpastes, vitamins, hats and gloves.
“I plan on doing a few trips,” said Ellis. “I have about 12 bags ready at the moment – 6 male and 6 female (the female ones contain sanitary products) – which I plan on handing out today with the help of some of my friends who have also started to collect some items to help me.”
According to homeless.org.uk there were 78 rough sleepers in Manchester in 2016 compared to only 7 in 2010.
With the rest of the money raised Ellis plans on making more care packages and distribute them out over the course of the week.
To donate towards Ellis’ campaign, go to her Just Giving page.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, And Burnham has recognised the issue of homelessness in Manchester and has vowed to end of by 2020.
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