Taunton Specsavers manager Nicole Hawkins and clinical lead optometrist Amy Sampson putting together the winter care packages

Opticians hands over care packages for Taunton homeless

Paul JonesFebruary 25, 20260 Comment0

HOMELESS people in Taunton have been receiving winter care packages thanks to a town opticians.

The team at Specsavers Taunton partnered with the Open Door charity to deliver 20 packages to people facing difficulties during the coldest months.

The packages include items such as hats, gloves, hand warmers and flasks, and were passed to those in need by the charity.

Nicole Hawkins, store manager at Specsavers Taunton, said: “The people at Open Door do incredible work throughout the year, and we are delighted to continue our partnership with them by providing warm clothing and care packages.

“As a store that’s owned and run by local people, we’re glad we can work with a local charity to support those needing support in our communities – especially during a very cold and difficult time of the year.

“In addition to us providing the care packages, Open Door had a wishlist of things they were looking for, including tops, thermals and socks, so we created a big goody bag for them with these in – and of course some chocolates.”

The donation came after the store’s team previously worked with Open Door to put on a free clinic for people living on the streets in Somerset before Christmas, offering free eye tests and glasses.

Open Door has a staff team of three and more than 30 volunteers, providing life’s basics for people as well as support for housing, education and employment, wellbeing and life skills.

Kirsty Betty, client support advisor at Open Door, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to Specsavers Taunton and everyone involved at Specsavers HQ for their generosity.

“The winter care packages were very well received by our service-users and will make a real difference during the colder months.

“We’re also especially thankful to Specsavers Taunton for a commitment that will help us continue supporting people who need us most.”

For further information about Open Door, log on to www.tauntonopendoor.org.uk, and to contact Specsavers Taunton, call 01823 259416 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/taunton.