Community champion Helen receives Silver Kite Award

A Newtown woman who has spent years supporting people across the town has been recognised with a Silver Kite Award for her contribution to the community.

Helen Kynaston received the award from the Chair of Powys County Council, Cllr William Powell, during a visit to the Newtown Community Kitchen. She had been nominated by Cllr Joy Jones in recognition of her work supporting local residents.

The award is the latest recognition for Helen, who was recently named the first Freewoman of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn, an honour reported by MyNewtown earlier this month. That award reflected decades of voluntary work across a wide range of community initiatives in the town.

Helen has played a central role in establishing and running the Newtown Community Kitchen, which has become a key support network for many residents. During the COVID 19 pandemic, she helped coordinate the provision of thousands of meals for people facing isolation and financial hardship.

The kitchen continues to operate today, providing weekly hot meals, a Thursday soup kitchen, and holiday meals for children. It also supports community events and offers a welcoming space for residents, alongside helping people access services and volunteering opportunities.

Cllr William Powell said: “Helen’s leadership, compassion and unwavering commitment have strengthened the heart of the Newtown community. Her work embodies the spirit of the Silver Kite Award, and it is a privilege to recognise all she has achieved.”