Volunteers from SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, have brought festive cheer to dozens of military veterans and beneficiaries across South East Wales this Christmas. The branch delivered 40 specially packed hampers to those for whom the season can be a particularly challenging time.
A Growing Tradition of Support
Now in its third consecutive year, the Christmas Hamper initiative has evolved from a small project into a cornerstone of the branch's annual calendar. This year, the South East Wales branch invested approximately £1,600 to create the hampers, each one filled with traditional festive treats like Christmas puddings and mince pies.
The scheme was coordinated by branch Chair Mike Wheeler and volunteer Kevin Griffiths, with crucial support from other SSAFA volunteers across the region. The packing took place at Raglan Barracks, with Mike Wheeler, Clare Woodward, Sarah Harding, and Kevin Griffiths assembling the gifts.
Reaching Those in Need
Ensuring the support reached the right people was a key priority. Recipients were identified through close collaboration with local veterans' hubs and via nominations from the Wales Regional Office. The hampers were distributed across a wide area, including:
- Rhondda Cynon Taf
- Gwent
- Bridgend
- Torfaen
- Treforest
- Pontypool
- Abergavenny
One beneficiary, nominated by the Wales Regional Office, expressed profound gratitude: "Thank you to SSAFA for always being there when I've needed support. Over the past two years, they've been my rock and I can't fault the help I've received."
More Than Just a Hamper
Mike Wheeler, Chair of SSAFA South East Wales Branch, highlighted the deeper meaning behind the project. "At Christmas especially, it's important that veterans know they haven't been forgotten," he said. "This initiative shows the power of volunteers working together to offer practical support and a bit of festive comfort to people across South East Wales. We're proud to be able to deliver this for our local Armed Forces community."
The impact of the scheme extends beyond the immediate festive period. Since its launch, the branch estimates it has delivered more than 70 hampers to veterans and their families throughout the region. Alongside providing tangible aid, the project has helped strengthen SSAFA's relationships with local veterans' hubs and increased awareness of the charity's ongoing work in South East Wales.
SSAFA has been supporting the Armed Forces community—including serving personnel, reserves, veterans, and their families—since 1885. The charity continues to emphasise that members of the military community never have to face their battles alone.
For those inspired to help, SSAFA encourages people to volunteer, fundraise, or seek support via their website. The public is also invited to leave messages of support for the Armed Forces community on the charity's dedicated celebration page.
