Winter Essential Bags, filled with items such as blankets, hats, gloves, warm socks, toiletries, snacks and shopping vouchers, are being distributed to people who use the services. These bags aim to provide warmth, comfort and a reminder that support is available during challenging times.

Bags are being distributed by STRIVE, a partnership between Hillcrest Futures’ Dundee Young People’s Service and The Corner Dundee. STRIVE supports local young people aged 12 to 21 and their families who are affected by substance use, financial challenges or difficult living situations. Further donations are being distributed by Hillcrest Futures’ Tayside Injecting Equipment Provision (IEP) Service and the Adult Harm Reduction Service working across Dundee, Perth and Angus.

Paula Gillan, project worker with Hillcrest Futures, highlighted the impact of the initiative: “The Winter Essential Bags have been really well received. For many of the people we support, this small gesture helps ease the burden of the colder months and shows them they’re not alone. It’s particularly important for those who may be in crisis or facing incredibly tough circumstances.

“This was made possible thanks to funding from Hillcrest Futures’ Service Improvement Fund. We’ve also been blown away by the generosity of local businesses and organisations who’ve supported this initiative. Their donations have made a real difference to the lives of people we work with.”

Donations from local businesses and services included:

• Morrisons Dundee and Perth: Toiletries such as shampoo, body wash, deodorants and toothpaste, as well as hats and gloves.
• Poundland Perth: Wellbeing items including coffee, combs, soaps, body sprays and shampoos.
• Drumhar Health Centre Perth: Clothing including hats, scarves and gloves.
• Caledonian Dental Care: Two boxes of toothpaste donated by manager Julie Duff.
• Round O Five O charity in Arbroath: Cosy hats.
• Canning Place service: A range of warm items donated by individuals supported by Hillcrest Futures’ Canning Place service in Dundee, a group home for adults with learning disabilities.

The Winter Essential Bags have provided people not only with practical support but also emotional reassurance. One young recipient shared: “Getting this bag really helped me out. It’s not just about the stuff inside, it feels good to know that people care and want to help. It’s been a tough time, and this has made it a bit easier to get through the winter.”