Cllr Rebecca Harvey (centre right) with representatives from Dads House, Solidarity Sports and the Earls Court Development Company at an air fryer demonstration
More than 400 local families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis have received air fryers and electric blankets to help them save money this winter.
The generous donations were made by the Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) who have teamed up with Hammersmith & Fulham Council to deliver the project.
Half will be distributed by H&F's cost-of-living team and half through local charities Dads House and Solidarity Sports.
"Warm homes and nutritious meals are vital in maintaining our health over the winter months, but sadly many residents can't afford these essentials," said Cllr Rebecca Harvey, H&F Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion and Community Safety.
"We are pioneering new ways to support residents in the borough through the cost-of-living-crisis. These electrical goods will help residents to keep warm, relieve the financial burden and cost of cooking hot meals, and reduce the stress of battling an incredibly cold winter alongside the cost-of-living crisis."
The donations are part of H&F's Keep Warm and Well campaign from our ongoing cost-of-living support, and have gone to families, elderly and Disabled residents from low income households that are known to the cost-of-living team and who were identified as most in need.
"As a local business, we are proud to play a role in our community," said Rob Heasman, Chief Executive, The Earls Court Development Company.
"The rising cost of living means many local people are struggling with the cost of food and energy. Through Hammersmith & Fulham Council's Keeping Warm and Well scheme we're pleased to be providing up to 500 energy-efficient air fryers and electric blankets to households who will benefit most from them, helping reduce their household spend, not just this winter but in the longer term."
Energy efficient items
The two electrical goods were chosen because of their proven health and cost saving benefits.
Air fryers, often a cost-effective alternative to ovens, offer a healthier substitute to deep frying food and can cook everything from kale to chicken.
Each air fryer being donated was bought from a local business on North End Road, and families will be invited to demonstrations for tips on how to make best use of them.
Electric blankets also provide a big bang for your buck and can have major health benefits, including keeping older residents warm and reducing their risk of heart attacks, strokes and pneumonia.
Cost-of-living support
H&F have a dedicated cost-of-living team.
You can contact them for support free on 0800 917 6994 from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, or email the team anytime at costoflivingteam@lbhf.gov.uk
If you need to see someone face to face, you can visit them in person at our offices at 145 King Street, Hammersmith for advice on the cost-of-living crisis and the support that's available to you.
The office is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Or check out our online cost-of-living guide for more information.
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