As the cost-of-living crisis continues and winter temperatures plummet, Hull Trains and Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University have teamed up once again to support young families throughout Hull by giving them warm essentials to get them through the winter months.

The most up-to-date figures collected by the Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University reveal that 40% of children growing up in Hull are living in poverty, prior to the pandemic, that figure was approximately 33%.

283 Winter warm packs have been made thanks to help from Hull Trains and Northern Gas Networks which will see every school in the city given four packs each which can be provided to the families which are most in need. The packs are made up of an array of items which will help children and families to keep warm in these difficult times, such as winter coats and electric blankets.

Natasha Banke, CEO of Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University, said: “We’re in the midst of another cold snap so I think these packs will be very greatly received. Schools have been reaching out and asking us for support for children during this difficult winter. We decided to provide energy-efficient electric blankets and warm winter coats as this would help ease some of the pressure these families are feeling.

“With the cost of living, families are struggling to make ends meet, and many of the families we support don’t receive any extra help. Many of us take heating our homes and owning a warm coat for granted, but the packs will make a world of difference for families that don’t have access to these items.”

Deborah Birch, Head of HR for Hull Trains, added: “It’s a really challenging time for many households and it’s reassuring to know these packs will help make a real difference for these young families and give them some support when they most need it. We’re delighted to support this scheme and the families in the region.”

To find out more about the incredible work that Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University offer through a number of schemes for disadvantaged children throughout the region, please visit: www.hullchildrensuniversity.com.