Homelessness in the UK is on the rise. There are dedicated charities both local and with a national footprint working tirelessly to help people who are on the street. The most effective way for the Foundation to make a contribution towards dealing with homelessness is to work with dedicated local charities. We made a grant of £1000 in March 2024 to Hope House in Braintree Essex to help cover the costs of their weekly community meal programme.
We asked Heidi Freeman from Hope House to tell us about their work.
“At Hope House Essex, our weekly community meal is more than just a hot plate of food, it’s a lifeline. Every week, approximately 30 people come together at a local church who allow us to use their building free of charge, for a nourishing meal, a safe space and a social event designed to combat the loneliness that often follows life impacted by homelessness or precarious housing. But beyond the food, we’re building something deeper: trust, friendship and a network of support.
After speaking to former residents and friends of Hope House Essex, we learned that one of the biggest challenges they faced after moving into their own homes was isolation. While independent living is a major step forward, the absence of a communal atmosphere can feel isolating. That’s why we launched the Wednesday evening meal: to offer not only physical nourishment but also emotional and social support to those who need it. On average, it costs approximately £70 each week to provide these meals.
During these meals, we don’t just fill stomachs; we create opportunities to reach people in need. Whether it’s connecting individuals to essential services or helping with immediate needs, our goal is to support the whole person. Our efforts are a vital part of tackling poverty within the community, offering resources that improve lives and health. We regularly help with:
– Referrals to other support agencies, including food banks (vouchers provided when necessary)
– Supplying clothing or essentials like tents for rough sleepers
– Assistance with form filling for benefits and other services
– Friendship and peer support that extends beyond the meal
All of this is possible because of our amazing team of volunteers, who not only prepare the meals but are also there to lend an ear, offer guidance, and connect people with resources.
The real power of our community meals is reflected in the personal stories of those we’ve helped. A recent example being ‘Oscar’. He came to the meal one evening and shared that he had been struggling with severe toothache for a week. Without a local dentist and unable to secure an appointment, he was in excruciating pain. Our team immediately stepped in, spending time calling dentists on his behalf. After reaching out to NHS 111, we were able to secure an out-of-area appointment for him. We didn’t stop there, we drove Oscar to the appointment where he was diagnosed with an abscess that urgently needed treatment. Since he had no money, we also paid for his prescription, ensuring he received the medication he needed to recover.
The impact of the community meal also extends to the volunteers who serve alongside us. Emma, who has been volunteering with Hope House for several years and brings her lived experience of overcoming alcohol and prescription drug dependency. Her journey gives her a unique perspective and allows her to connect deeply with those attending the meal who may be struggling with similar challenges. Her ability to offer not just food, but empathy and understanding, plays a vital role in improving lives and health within our community.
One of the highlights of these evenings is when the cake trolley rolls out! Thanks to a very generous volunteer, we’re treated to three homemade cakes every week, and it’s not unusual to see everyone going back for seconds. This simple joy adds a sweet sense of community and warmth to the evening.
The support we offer doesn’t stop when the plates are cleared. The Hope House manager Heidi and team of volunteers provide a wide range of advocacy and assistance in partnership with local organizations. From liaising with local authorities, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and healthcare professionals to helping with debt services, probation, and mental health support, we’re here to advocate for those in need. Whether it’s arranging transport for crucial appointments or collaborating with agencies like Essex Police, the Safeguarding Team and Gateway to Housing, our work extends far beyond the weekly meal.
We recognise the power of collaboration in creating long term support . We are proud to work closely with the local Community Safety Hub, Essex Police, Street link, and other homeless charities. Our partnerships allow us to provide comprehensive support, from safeguarding and advocacy to connecting individuals with housing and healthcare resources.
So, what’s next for us? We are excited to continue our commitment to the Wednesday evening community meal. As we have seen, the growing need for advice and support in our community requires more action. Inspired by our hands-on experience, we’re expanding our reach even further to meet that need”.
Hope House reflects what can be achieved locally when dedicated volunteers get together. We are proud to support such organisations.