- 23/12/2013
- Posted by: Joyce Watson MS
- Category: Feature
Assembly Member Joyce Watson made a festive visit to PATCH last week, to congratulate volunteers on the Pembrokeshire charity’s Christmas toy appeal.
The Mid and West AM helped staff and volunteers from Greenhill School, Tenby Soroptimists, local church groups, the Labour Party and Pembrokeshire council pack parcels to be delivered to families across the county.
PATCH co-ordinator Tracy Olin said: “We were delighted that Joyce was able to visit us, in the run-up to Christmas. This year we have seen a huge increase in demand for our services – food, clothes and household goods – so it was very useful to discuss local need with Joyce, and we are grateful for her continued support.”
Last year PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship) gave toys and gifts to more than 500 Pembrokeshire children. The charity also runs a ‘Basics Bank’ of non-perishable food, clothing, toiletries and household goods.
Following her visit on Monday (16 December) to PATCH’s Milford base at Havens Head Business Park, Mrs Watson said:
“I am very grateful to PATCH for inviting me to see their operation in action. It is wonderful that so many people have given time, money and gifts to help their neighbours. It makes Christmas that much easier and more enjoyable for Pembrokeshire families struggling to make ends meet.
“Food banks show communities at their best, but the economy at its worst. For too many people work and benefits do not pay enough to live on, and Christmas is an extra pressure. Politicians must look at low pay and the welfare system to avoid this situation in the first place – this visit has renewed my determination to take that message back to the Assembly.”
Information about PATCH’s Christmas appeal and services is available at http://www.patchcharity.org.uk/. Or contact PATCH at: Head Office: PATCH, Unit C, Haven’s Head Business Park, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, SA73 3LD – 01646 699275 / 07775 571431 / [email protected] / [email protected]
For more information about Joyce Watson’s work, contact her office on 02920 898972 / www.joycewatson.co.uk
