At the launch of the 2021 Christmas Toy Appeal, PATCH Volunteers received their 2020 Pembrokeshire Volunteering Award for ‘Group aged over 25’.

The Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards (supported by South Hook LNG) were held in November 2020 but due to ongoing COVID restrictions the Award presentation was delayed. The judging panel noted the commitment that the volunteers showed to PATCH in difficult circumstances, while continuing to support each other and maintaining vital services.

Because of lockdown, and shielding, many PATCH Volunteers (‘PATCHites’) could not undertake their usual volunteering, at a time when the need for PATCH services increased dramatically. Tracy, Charity Coordinator at PATCH, who nominated the group said, ‘Although we had a huge increase in need we were working with a much-reduced team, [despite this] their hard work, care, and humour never changed.’

Louise Wilkinson, from PAVS (Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary services), said, ‘It was very humbling to be at the launch of the Toy Appeal; PATCH Volunteers give so much time and energy to the community. I was a great privileged to be able to present the PATCHites with their Award – albeit a little late.’

The Toy Appeal was launched with the help of Pure West Radio. Through generous donations form the people of Pembrokeshire, and sponsors, PATCH aim to give 4-5 new age-related gifts, chocolates, art material and wrapping paper as well as a family interactive toy to each 0–17-year-old referred. In 2019 they gave to around 950 Children and Pembrokeshire Frame delivered to 350 families. For more information, including drop off points, visit the PATCH Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PatchCharityPembs/

For more information about volunteering contact PAVS Volunteering Pembrokeshire on 01437 769422 or email [email protected]