Kind Alex bids to help homeless
Blankets, clothes and cuddly toys
A Crieff boy wants to ensure homeless people are given some comforts this winter.
Six-year-old Alex Bray was inspired to help those in need after seeing a television appeal.
The P2 Crieff Primary pupil has been asking locals to donate items of clothing, toiletries and sanitary products, blankets and food so that he can make up packages to hand out.
Other useful items being sought are rucksacks and small suitcases to put the donations in.
And Alex also thinks everyone should receive a cuddly toy.
He told the Herald: “I think a teddy bear is also important because people need something to cuddle up with when they are sleeping.
“I think it is good that everyone has been giving stuff and I think people should keep giving to help others get back on their feet.”
Mum and dad Hazel and John are proud of Alex’s efforts and the response from locals.
Hazel said: “We have been inundated with messages from people who say they are going to donate stuff and John Fitzgerald O’Donnell from Premier Taxis in Crieff has been very kind and generously offered to do a free pick- up service for anyone donating in Crieff.
“A lady has even offered Alex a kid’s knitting machine so he can make hats and scarfs as well.”
Alex will be going to Glasgow with his parents later this month to hand out his packages to rough sleepers personally.
The rest are being given to Churches Action for the Homeless ( CATH) for distribution in Perth.
Ronald Hogg from CATH said: “It’s always wonderful to hear people getting involved in supporting the homeless.
“This is a fantastic initiative Alex has started and it looks to have gathered a lot of local support.
“People mostly think of rough sleepers when they think of homelessness but that’s just part of the issue.
“Individuals in temporary accommodation, in hostels, sofa surfing, etc, are still in the cycle of homelessness and need just as much support to move forward.
“We support individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Although Perth has a significant homeless population, we don’t have such a visible rough sleeping population.
“These boxes will be extremely welcomed by the recipients as they include many essential items that are sometimes at the bottom of the list when you are struggling financially.
“Well done, Alex. Brilliant job.”
To donate items contact Hazel Bray via Facebook or call 07462067302.