Why the community needs us
When everything turned on it’s head in March 2020 KNA’s security and referenced checked volunteers were there to help vulnerable people in Kew. At it’s peak we shopped for over 40 individuals in Kew. Happily our shopping is back to pre-pandemic levels - shopping for eight people a week. However requests to drive people to GP surgeries, hospitals for vital check ups and operations has risen by 40% in the least year alone. We are delighted to be taking some of our clients back to The Avenue Club to their numerous classes, keeping our clients socially engaged.
Our impact on the community
We currently have 230 clients registered with KNA. 70% are over the age of 80. We drive our clients to both medical and social appointments, help with shopping, light gardening and provide companionship.
51% of our clients are not online and don't use email. KNA has become a key partner in ensuring our clients hear of vital information including pop up vaccination clinics, door to door or telephone scam alerts and cost of living grants.
Some of our clients can feel isolated and lonely. Our Companionship Programme matches volunteers with people who enjoy and appreciate a regular in person visit, whilst some prefer a telephone chat instead. Our volunteers play chess, accompany people for a walk or simply have a chat.
We continue to offer our clients ‘moments of joy’. One of our fantastic volunteers bakes homemade brownies to their own secret recipe. These are delivered on significant birthdays along with a small plant and a card directly to people's doorsteps. In July we held our in person Summer Party and combined it with sending Tea Boxes, funded by Kew Rotary, to those who are housebound and unable to attend. In October, in partnership with Broomfield School, we offered our clients Harvest Festival Hampers. And in December we will continue to deliver Christmas Tea Boxes. We are are told by our clients how wonderful it is to feel remembered.
Why we need your donations
KNA has benefitted from a few larger and smaller bequests giving KNA security and stability. KNA’s cashflow forecast shows that the charity may run out of funds by 2027, it’s 50th anniversary year, or earlier without further donations and bequests. Please consider giving a one off or regular donation and leaving a bequest in your will. Please help give KNA financial stability to continue to match volunteer helpers with people who need a helping hand in Kew.
Thank you so much for considering donating to help continue the work of KNA. Neighbours met in a local pub in 1976 to discuss how to fill a gap in community spirit in Kew. There’s certainly no lack of community spirit in Kew now. KNA is proud to continue to offer local support and work in partnership with Kew residents and organisations.
If you'd like to talk further about the work of KNA please phone Director, Abi Palmer on 07951 293 319 or email Abi.Palmer@kna.org.uk
