That homelessness remains such an issue in modern society is a damning indictment. No one should face the possibility of not having a roof over their head. Yet according to the government, over 6,000 households across England were at risk of eviction between January and March this year. This number is 25% higher than before the pandemic and could go even higher still as we head into winter.
Since 1998, StreetSmart has run initiatives to support local charities that help homeless people over the Christmas period. Partnering with restaurants nationwide, a voluntary £1 donation is added to every diner’s bill to support local homelessness projects during November and December.
It has raised over £11.2 million for homeless and vulnerable people in the UK since it began. Working with the property industry charity LandAid, StreetSmart ensures every penny of this has gone to delivering life changing services for young people across the UK.
This year a number of Bristol restaurants, such as Secret Bristol favourite’s Root and Pizzarova, will participate in this year’s fundraising. They’ll be joined by Bertha’s, Bokman, Bosco, Box E, Bulrush, Caper & Cure, Fishers, Harbour House, Harvey Nichols, Klosterhaus, Little Hollows, Marmo, Pasta Loco, Poco, Rocksalt, Snobby’s and Wilsons.
“Working with Streetsmart gives us an opportunity to make a difference to those that really need it. Ben and myself got involved with this great movement over 5 years ago with Pasta Loco and although there is still plenty to do, we feel we helped the situation,” said Dominic Borel, owner of Pasta Loco. “We are looking forward to helping once more plus help shine light on a very serious situation here in the UK and work towards a solution.”
Last year, all funds raised by StreetSmart were donated to the charity 1625 Independent People in Bristol. The charity works with young people in the Bristol area to prevent homelessness, keep them safe and support them in taking the next steps. StreetSmart will run from now until the end of December.