Hope Housing residents thank Sandbanks restaurant for donation.

A donation from Rick Stein Sandbanks will enable residents at Hope HTS homelessness charity in Bournemouth to grow their own vegetables.

Hope HTS, based in St Swithuns Road South, has supported over 2,700 homeless people to access safe accommodation, support, and counselling. 

Gary, Stephen and Mark, who have all been successfully helped out of homelessness by Hope visited the restaurant in Banks Road, Poole, to meet staff and express their gratitude for the £595 donation. The residents, along with Hope’s Founder and CEO Julie Berti, were met by Lauren Mole, Guest Services and Events Co-ordinator at the restaurant.

Stephen said: “Lauren told us that the money was raised through customer donations, which is great. It’s been nice to come and meet her and hear about the restaurant and its fundraising for ours and other local charities. Everyone has been really welcoming.” Mark agreed: “Hope does great work and supports lots of people. Donations like this are important to keep its work going.”

Julie Berti said: “Hope’s proven support model gives people like Stephen, Mark, and Gary a roof over their head, followed by counselling and guidance, so they can go on to access education and training, become self-sufficient and move on from Hope as valued contributors to the community and local economy.

“I can’t thank Lauren and her patrons enough for their donation. It’s so important for local businesses and residents to have awareness of what we do in the local area and the impact this makes to people’s lives.

“The money donated by Rick Stein Sandbanks customers will be used to plant a residents’ vegetable garden so people can grow their own produce, which they can then use to cook their own delicious meals. This will not only create a long-term life skill, but will also support their mental health, and encourage time outside in the garden.”

Lauren Mole said: “It's been heartwarming to see how keen our customers have been to support such an important cause as Hope, and we’re absolutely delighted to hear the donation will make such a positive impact.”

Hope would like to hear from more companies and businesses interested in supporting its work. For more information please email: mariam@hopehts.com