SMI steps up to support the homeless

Thermal insulation specialists at a Telford firm have backed a charity that helps homeless people struggling to make ends meet.

Seymour Manufacturing International Limited specialises in the manufacture of thermal insulation products and has helped some of the world’s largest and most recognisable brands to save energy and reduce costs.

Now the company, which has its headquarters at Stafford Park, has responded to an appeal from PINT (People in Need Today) and donated thermal gel packs to help keep food donations safe during transport.

Managing director Jill Seymour said the company wanted to support the charity with its outreach work to help homeless people across London.

“PINT are doing a fantastic job in helping people who find themselves homeless to secure a hot meal and we knew our gel packs could make a real difference in their efforts to collect food donations and keep them at an optimum temperature.

“We’re very happy to have been able to help the team and hope that our products will allow them to reach even more people as the homelessness crisis grows.”

Volunteer Oana-Larisa Cozma who works with PINT said one of their key principles was outreach work.

“Twice a day, our volunteers go out into London, seeking out those sleeping rough, and provide them with supplies. The packages assembled by our volunteers range from hot meals, snacks, and water, to essentials including wet wipes, toothbrushes, socks, and underwear.

“We perform these outreaches, making sure that those on the streets know that we are coming, and that support will soon be with them.

“The people we help can range from single parents, to elderly and vulnerable individuals and those struggling with disabilities. As a small charity, we aim to support those who find themselves in desperate last-minute situations that are unavoidable.

“Another aspect of our work is providing aid for those locally in Westminster, Wandsworth, and Lambeth. When we are able to, we also provide emergency assistance.

“We provide regular support to the elderly and vulnerable confined to their homes by bringing them food parcels. Every week we help between 600-700 people of various ages, ethnicities, and genders. We also provide assistance through a soup kitchen every Monday evening serving approximately 50-60 individuals each day.

“Our team works closely with the FELIX Project food bank and the gel packs will be used when we collect and transport food donations.

“We are extremely grateful to Seymour Manufacturing International as their donation will help us improve our services and serve the members of the homeless community more effectively.”