Over 25 businesses in the Cardiff and Newport area have joined the #helptheheroesdiff campaign, it has been announced today. Together, the businesses are helping provide weekly food parcels to over 600 staff across seven NHS hospitals* around the Cardiff, Vale and Newport area throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

The campaign was founded by Kevin McGuckian owner of Cardiff-based food business, Holy Yolks, at the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis to help support those working on the NHS frontline. Initially, Kevin decided to make food parcels for staff at his local NHS hospital, The Royal Gwent, but when the crisis worsened, he contacted other local food companies for their support. He now leads the group of 25 businesses, who collectively provide food to NHS workers by preparing food in their isolated kitchens and then taking them to a central hub for delivery.

In order to sustain the campaign, Kevin has launched a JustGiving page, which has already raised over £10,000. These donations, from businesses and the local community, have funded the campaign so far and will allow it to continue until the end of June. 

Amongst the donors to the campaign are Cardiff-based global data and analytics business, LexisNexis® Risk Solutions, who donated £2,000 - equating to 500 meals. Other donors included local businesses and members of the public.

Kevin McGuckian, Owner and Founder of Holy Yolks, commented:

“When the COVID outbreak first hit the UK, I saw the TV reports of NHS frontline workers putting their lives on the line and struggling with overflowing wards and just wanted to do something to help.

“I didn’t plan on it becoming a big thing, but as soon as I started asking for help from other catering businesses, it snowballed – everyone just wants to do their bit to help. “

Steve Elliot, Managing Director of LexisNexis Risk Solutions, commented:

“The #helptheheroesdiff campaign, with support of the local Cardiff community, has helped put smiles back on the faces of key NHS workers. When we saw the work that was going on, we knew we had to support the charity, and ensure that we could allow them to continue their amazing efforts through this unprecedented time. All of us at LexisNexis Risk Solutions are proud to be part of such a generous community that has rallied together in this difficult time.”