A BARNT Green grandfather says he has seen people 'break down in tears' with gratitude for food parcels he is delivering as a volunteer during the coronavirus outbreak.

Julian Cobbledick, 64, has been volunteering for Crisis, the national charity for homeless people, for several years.

Previously, he has helped out with year-round services providing education, training and support at Crisis’ Skylight Centre in Birmingham, as well as volunteering at their Christmas shelters.

He’s now stepped up to the task of volunteering during the pandemic by delivering care packages that the charity has put together with food, tissues, hand sanitiser and copies of the Government’s health advice, as well as acting as a friendly voice on the phone to people who might be feeling isolated.

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Julian said: “I’m happy to help Crisis out however I can because I have seen the amazing work the charity does.

"Yesterday when I delivered a food parcel, a lady who had a couple of children with her broke down in tears she was so grateful.

“At a time when we are being told to stay home to keep ourselves and others safe, you appreciate even more the challenges people without a home, or those living in hostels, face.”

Crisis has just launched its 'In This Together' campaign that aims to provide vital support for people who suffering are during the pandemic by raising funds and supporting volunteers.

Money raised will go towards keeping Crisis’ services running and those of smaller, local homelessness charities who are struggling in these unprecedented circumstances.

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Richard Lee, director of fundraising at Crisis, said: “Having a safe place to live is an essential human need - and in times like these it couldn’t be more important.

"We are so grateful for the commitment and dedication of volunteers like Julian who are going the extra mile to help those who are especially hard hit by this outbreak.

“Although it is a difficult time for everybody, we are heartened by the generosity of people offering their time or wanting to contribute financially towards ensuring people affected by homelessness remain safe.”