A PROJECT to reach out to people suffering from loneliness in Wokingham has expanded, thanks to the work of a group of sheltered housing customers.

Focused Friends, a group of Optalis customers, set up their Hug in a Mug initiative to deliver mugs packed with treats including tea, cookies and chocolates to Wokingham Hospital, Wokingham Foodbank and Berkshire Women’s Aid.

Having delivered more than 200 of the mugs, the group has now expanded their operation to Hug in a Bag, filling rucksacks with winter goodies such as blankets, socks and toiletries to distribute among local homeless people.

Teaming up with Reading charity Piaroo’s Wish, 60 Hug in a Bags have now been delivered, and the team is shifting their focus towards Easter.

Martin Farrow, Optalis chief executive officer said: “This amazing initiative goes from strength to strength. The Focused Friends, made up of Optalis customers with learning disabilities, had a great idea to support the community and through their passion, teamwork, creativity and kindness have made the idea a reality. Not only have they made a difference to vulnerable members of society, it has been a rewarding and beneficial experience for our customers to be involved in this project.”

Focused Friends relies on fundraising and donations. Anyone who would like to donate Easter eggs to be distributed to the community can send them to Acorn Community Centre, Woosehill.