Charity founder's hard work recognised by Points of Light award from the Prime Minister
A CHARITY founder who has been working to prevent hunger and loneliness has been recognised with an award from the Prime Minister.
Retired police officer Kerry Snuggs, founder of Fareham and Gosport charity Acts of Kindness, was presented with the Points of Light award, a daily commendation from Boris Johnson for people making a difference where they live.
The community group of more than 200 volunteers has been spreading kindness and tackling loneliness by telephoning those who are feeling isolated and helping more then 2,000 people across the area with shopping and collection of medications.
Fareham MP Suella Braverman presented Kerry with her award, the 1,421st of its kind, on Friday.
Mrs Braverman said: ‘I am immensely proud that one of Portchester’s own has been awarded this incredible commendation.
‘Kerry is an example to us all of how to spread positivity and help out in the local area and as a community we have felt the full warmth of that kindness.
‘I am looking forward to getting increasingly closely involved with Acts of Kindness in the future, and to wholeheartedly offering my support to the next endeavours they embark on.’
Prime Minister Boris Johnson sent a letter to Kerry to nominate her for the award.
The Prime Minister said: ‘In the midst of our battle with coronavirus, our nation has been uplifted by so many acts of kindness that have united our communities and shown the very best of Britain to the world.
‘So I wanted to write to thank you for all that you have done to help thousands across Hampshire with medicines, shopping and friendly telephone calls.
‘Your inspiring compassion and dedication have ensured that those who have had to be isolated at this time have not been on their own.’
Reacting to the prime minister’s announcement, Kerry said: ‘Thank you ever so much for the award. We have a wonderful community and they really have been an absolute privilege to serve.
‘This award is in recognition for each and every volunteer that works for Acts of Kindness.’
As the UK unites to fight the spread of coronavirus, the award is focusing exclusively on people serving their community through the pandemic.