Find out more about what we do, how we started and how you can help.
About Us
The Care Pack was launched in 2017 as a personal project by our Founder, Hootan Ahmadi, to help some of London’s rough sleepers cope with the harsh winter conditions. The aim in that first year was to put together and distribute 30 backpacks filled with essential items and to distribute them by Christmas 2017.
Reaching out to friends and contacts, he was overwhelmed by the flood of support – from those who donated items to those who gave their time to put the backpacks together and hand them out to homeless individuals on London’s streets.
The generosity of spirit of those around us meant that by the time the backpacks had been handed out in 2017, we had enough pledges of support to start planning for 2018. In 2018 we packed and distributed 200 packs, provide new logistical challenges of ordering in bulk, storage and the man power required for packing. This year, we have scaled up again to 350 and are aiming to grow exponentially in the coming years, expanding across the UK.
Our first year was transformative for all involved, especially for those who distributed the Care Packs. It was incredibly moving to meet the recipients, to listen to their stories and learn about their daily struggles. We understand that there are numerous reasons for homelessness and that efforts to tackle it are many and complicated. Until homelessness can be eradicated completely, it is our sincerest wish to help as many people as possible to cope with the realities of a winter spent on the streets.
The Founder
Hootan Ahmadi
Hootan trained as a plastic surgeon in the UK and left full time medicine in 2010 to pursue other ventures. He now owns and runs several businesses but charity has always been close to his heart. In 2012 he set up the Collective Sports Foundation, a charity helping young children in underprivileged areas to excel in sports and education. In 2018, he was moved to launch The Care Pack UK after seeing so many homeless people on the streets of London.
In the 21st Century people should not be without food, water and a home in third world countries, let alone in the streets of London. We can’t cure the world of all its problems, but we can start somewhere, and there really isn’t anywhere better than on our own doorstep. We live in a privileged world and it’s nice to be able to give back in some way. And please remember: charities are not mutually exclusive – you can give to several worthy causes at the same time!
Trustee
Mark McKenna
Mark founded Dynergy Ltd in 2012, a worldwide sourcing and fulfilment company based in London. Dynergy specialise in sourcing and importing innovative consumer products and distribute these through their market leading logistics and fulfilment operation.
Mark has been in involved with The Care Pack UK since 2018 where he has facilitated sourcing of the CarePacks and their contents, as well as providing storage and packing facilities during the year. Mark was asked to join the board of trustees having worked closely and supported Care Pack for two years. It is our privilege to have Mark as our trustee.
I am honoured to join the board of trustees on such a great cause, having worked with the charity for two years. With my background in logistics, and sourcing, I am confident of being able to rapidly scale up the number of bags handed out each year.
Trustee
Hussein Aziz
Hussein Aziz is an investor in London and has been for over 20 years .
He is on the board of the Aziz foundation and is an ambassador for Save the Children.
Hussein’s main focus is property and leisure. He loves to give back to the local community and considers Care Pack an amazing cause and benefit to London.
Please Donate Generously
Our Mission
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What We Achieved
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why backpacks?
There are many vulnerable people sleeping on our streets who – for various reasons – do not or cannot seek help from shelters or other places dedicated to helping the homeless. In these circumstances, there are many items that these individuals do not have access to – especially items that will help them to get through the winter.
Our backpacks contain many such items and the packs themselves allow the recipients to keep the contents together and safe, especially if they need to move location.
How much does each backpack cost?
The cost of The Care Pack differs based on the number of packs we put together and the ability of suppliers to supply items at discount or at cost. The approximate cost per Care Pack this year was £40-50. Our growth plan includes partnering up with regular suppliers and to bring the cost of the packs down with larger orders, so a £50 donation this year would cover the cost of at least one Care Pack next year.
How can I volunteer?
Any offers of volunteering are greatly appreciated, especially at this busy time of year.
We have now teamed up with Crisis who will be helping us to distribute the Care Packs. The backpacks will be put together on 14th December and distributed thereafter. If you would like to volunteer, please get in touch by emailing us at info@thecarepack.co.uk.
How can I donate?
Donating is very simple and hugely appreciated. Please click on our JustGiving page!
Can I get involved for next year?
We are always looking for people who can help! Aside from monetary donations, our biggest obstacle is sourcing suppliers who will partner with us to keep the cost of each Care Pack as low as possible. If you would like to help then please email us.
What is inside each Care Pack?
When putting together the Care Pack, we consider the items that will make most impact not just in terms of survival but also for psychological wellbeing. We believe in the right to dignity and that especially at this time of year, small things such as deodorant and lip balm help to lift the spirits of someone who is going through an incredibly difficult time.
This year, The Care Pack includes:
– Blanket
– Drawstring Bag
– Duct Tape
– Flashlight
– Hand Warmers
– Inflatable Neck Pillow
– Matches
– Ponchos
– Sleeping Bag
– Socks
– Thermal Flask
– Thermal Gloves
– Thermal Long Johns
– Thermal Vest
– Towel
– Body Wash
– Cotton Buds
– Ear Plugs
– Floss
– Hand and Body Lotion
– Hand Mirror and Comb
– Hand Sanitiser
– Lip Balm
– Mini First Aid Kit
– Nail Clippers
– Nail Kit
– Paper Pad and Pen
– Shampoo
– Shaving Gel
– Sleep Mask
– Stick Deodorant
– Tissues
– Toothbrush
– Toothpaste
– Wet Wipes
– Whistle
