There is no doubt that the UK loves crisps. Around 6 billion packets are consumed each year in the UK, equating to more than 16 million of them being thrown away every day.
One local resident has taken up the challenge to no longer send them to landfill but instead help the homeless by making crisp packet blankets. Each blanket is made up of approximately 77 ironed together packets, which can then be used to line sleeping bags. The foil lining reflects the user’s body heat to keep them warm.
Local resident, Maria Melling, told Hillington Today: “I fed the homeless before lockdown and wanted to do something to help them whilst being able to stay at home and stay safe”.
Having seen the idea on the television, she plans to distribute the finished product to local homeless charities in the area and has even got local youth centres involved in helping her make the blankets.
The concept originally came from The Crisp Packet Project, a national project which encourages people to recycle their crisp packets in an effort to help those who are less fortunate and it is something everyone can get involved in.
Further details can be found on their website www.crisppacketproject.com.
