As most people look forward to celebrating the forthcoming festive season, to an ever increasing group of vulnerable people, Christmas is just another day. As winter creeps in, The People’s Kitchen are asking the generous people of the north east to remember the vulnerable and homeless and pledge to help feed a friend for Christmas.
For more than 30 years, The People’s Kitchen have been providing food and friendship fpr those that need it the most. For six days a week the charity provides food from its base near St James’ Park or from special catering vehicles in various parts of Newcastle. The charity is run entirely by volunteers, no government funding is received and no one is paid for their work.
Last year, kind-hearted pledgers raised more than £80,000 which ensured that everyone who needed it received a hot meal throughout the cold winter months.
The People’s Kitchen are once again asking people to pledge £5 for the cost of a winter meal via their website www.peopleskitchen.co.uk/feed-a-friend
Donations can also be made through the NEoffers.co.uk website neoffers.co.uk/products/homeless-newcastle-upon-tyne-christmas
Maureen Armstrong, who leads on Corporate Social Responsibility for The People’s Kitchen explained the difference a five pound donation can make to someone in need.
“We often take everyday things like a hot meal for granted but for many people living on the streets or sofa surfing between other people’s homes, a hot meal isn’t always readily available. Apart from providing nutrition, eating a hot meal can be a social event encouraging friends to chat and enjoy each other’s company. It can also be a healing aid too for those with medical conditions helping to rebuild the body with nutritious and healthy meals. We can provide a three course meal for just £5 and all of the associated support that goes with it. If you can donate, it would be a tremendous Christmas gift to our friends.”
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PHOTO: Maureen Armstrong and catering volunteers at The People’s Kitchen
The People’s Kitchen: The Alison Centre, 56 Bath Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5SQ (near St James’ Park)
Fast facts about The People’s Kitchen
- We provide a unique service for the homeless and vulnerable people of Newcastle
- We offer high quality and relevant services to maximise positive outcomes for friends.
- Our friends have open access to our services regardless of their personal circumstances
- Our services focus on friendship, food and futures. (out of hours)
- We can also provide basic essentials like clothing, showers etc
- We also have an events programme to help negate social isolation
- We are extremely grateful to the 1,100 plus sources that donate to us every year.
- From large corporates to schools, churches and individuals, every donation matters.
- Our 200 volunteers deliver a staggering 35000 voluntary hours per year representing a benefit in kind wage saving of £0.5m
- A small donation goes a long way
PR & Media Keith@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397951