Where the heart is

It was great to make bread with others and help in the kitchen serving drinks and getting involved in the community of people that make use of the café. We had quite a few laughs which made the day special and all enjoyed the gorgeous homemade vegetable soup that was served up for everyone made by their Chef. So, we all left with full bellies from donated food gratefully received from donations and hearts full of shared kindness amongst us all.

Perfect day and Will is such an inspiration.

Will and his team are doing a great job. It was quite an eye-opening experience in many ways and I will definitely be donating clothes at least next time we have a clear out.

I enjoyed the day. They could have got more work out of me if there’d been more available, but hopefully I was of some benefit to the driver. It was interesting to see other aspects of what they do this time. I wasn’t aware of all the clothing recycling that went on.

And finally, Friend E. They came to HOB in a very distressed state. They had multiple problems primarily from their past. We were able to guide them into Counselling, support them with fuel cost, and advise them as needed with benefit applications. They are now still continuing with their counselling- and moving forward. With our help and using our long-gained knowledge, we have managed to relieve them of their other concerns. We continue to be there for them by offering a safe, supportive, non-judgemental place to visit, with our signature friendly welcome.

Which brings us to Friend D. They had a relationship breakdown which led them to be homeless. When they visited House of Bread, we were able to support them in registering with the Council. Housing department and subsequently, House of Bread contacted a local housing provider and helped them with their application for supported housing. They are now in this accommodation. and no longer homeless

Now to introduce Friend C. They had struggled for some while with health issues following a road accident. They reached out for
our help and we were able to advise them to apply for PIP, and to support them during the application. This matter finally went to a tribunal, where they was successful in their claim.

Our next friend- Friend B, found themselves in great financial hardship and was really struggling. They came into House of Bread every day that we were open and approached us for help. Through our work and knowledge of other agencies, were able to refer them to the right place to start to address those difficulties they had found themselves in and they now continue to be debt free.

Our first friend, who we shall call Friend A, had been homeless for over 6 years. They would not engage with agencies as they felt they were made to constantly jump through unnecessary hoops. They regularly attended House of Bread where they would sit very quietly by themselves. Over time, we spoke with them and discovered what needs they had, gradually they started to engage, coming slowly out of their shell. Friend A is now in accommodation and despite a few wobbles along the way, they continue to manage, these with our ongoing support.