Community champion Karen Jordan wins Biggest Heart Award at Halton and St Helens Volunteer Awards 2026

Karen Jordan has been recognised for her outstanding kindness, compassion and generosity after winning the Biggest Heart Award at the Halton and St Helens VCA Volunteer Awards 2026.

The award celebrates an individual whose selfless commitment has made an exceptional difference to people and animals across the local community.

Karen has dedicated countless hours to caring for stray and abandoned animals, helping to reunite lost pets with their owners and providing comfort to families during difficult times. Her commitment has included personally funding the neutering of stray cats, helping to improve animal welfare and reduce pressure on already overcrowded shelters.

Her community spirit extends well beyond animal welfare. Karen was one of the founders of the Halton Food Hub, an initiative that went on to provide thousands of meals to local residents. She is also well known for supporting people in her neighbourhood through community food-sharing projects, helping to reduce waste, bring people together and ensure support is available to those who need it.

The judges recognised Karen's remarkable generosity and the way she consistently gives her time, energy and personal resources without seeking recognition.

The award was presented at the annual ceremony at The Heath in Runcorn, which brought together volunteers, community organisations and civic leaders from across Halton and St Helens to celebrate the contribution of the voluntary and community sector.

Sally Yeoman MBE, Chief Executive of Halton and St Helens VCA, and Claire Redford-Kerr presented the award.

Karen's achievement highlights the many different ways volunteers make a difference, often quietly and behind the scenes, through acts of kindness that can transform lives.

Halton and St Helens VCA congratulates Karen on this richly deserved recognition and thanks her for the compassion and dedication she brings to her community.