The Mayor of Dudley has visited a borough-based community organisation, which is one of those honoured by His Majesty the King earlier this week.

The recipients of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service were announced on His Majesty’s birthday, November 14.

Eighteen organisations across the West Midlands have received the prestigious award, which recognises the contribution of volunteers in local communities.

Recipients include Midland Freewheelers Blood Bikes, children’s charity, ‘Cherished’, the Wolverhampton branch of Samaritans and Champions Community Trust.

For the last eleven years, Champions Community Trust has been serving a free hot meal to the lonely and vulnerable from a variety of borrowed bases, currently operating from St Michaels Church in Brierley Hill.

The meal is just a first step to helping people. It provides a chance for volunteers to talk to people, assess their situation and signpost or refer people to services and help.

During Covid, the trust’s work evolved to respond to the community needs. As well as hot meals, it now also makes deliveries of food parcels and other essential items to vulnerable households, as well as providing advice and support on day-to-day issues and living support.

The trust has 27 volunteers and can support up to 300 people at any one time. Councillor Andrea Goddard, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“Congratulations to all of the volunteers at the Champions Community Trust on receiving such a prestigious accolade from His Majesty the King. 

“They are one of only 18 organisations to be recognised in the West Midlands, which really demonstrates the quality of service they provide.

“I’m very proud of their achievements in not only receiving this award, but their dedication and efforts in helping local people.

“It was lovely to pop in and meet the volunteers this week and congratulate them personally.”

Michelle Smith, leader of the Champions Community Trust, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received this award, the team give so much of themselves, all with absolute clarity on the goal, to serve those who need us.

“Our work wouldn’t be possible without the kind donations we receive, which we heavily rely upon.

“At this time of year, in the run up to Christmas, we are particularly in need of donations, so if anyone can support us – whether that’s through donating resources or their time, we’d love them to get in touch.”