At the Soup Kitchen we aim to provide more than just food and clothing. We offer friendship and warmth, we offer respect, we offer eye contact and integrity. Some of the things that speak into deeper places that words cannot reach, particularly for our guests who are often forgotten, ignored or avoided at all costs.
We recently carried out our annual Guests’ Survey. This years survey showed that along with our free food and clothing, the most appreciated aspect of our work has been the company and emotional support.
"I LEFT THE SOUP KITCHEN KNOWING I WAS LOVED"
One of the most touching comments was from a guest who in mid February gave us the good news that he had been going regularly to a clinic and now had a place in residential rehab for his drug addiction. This is someone we have known for 2 years, who was dependent on drugs and very vulnerable emotionally when we first met him. Over that time, all the staff and several volunteers have chatted, listened, sympathised and encouraged this man, who has so much charm and potential. He writes: ‘There were times when I had given up on life, but after talking to staff and volunteers, I left knowing I was loved.’
"THE DUVET YOU SAVED FOR ME WAS JUST RIGHT!"
Apart from free food and clothing, we sometimes provide for other guest needs: a day bus pass to get to interviews, a few pounds to top up their electricity key, the cost of a few copies of the Big Issue which they can sell on. A more poignant recent request was for the price of a bouquet of flowers for a funeral.
Recently we were thrilled to learn that one guest, a long term squatter, had got a Council flat, so we started looking out for household items. At just the right time a duvet was donated, in very good condition!
"I’M FEELING MUCH HAPPIER THIS WEEK..."
One of our guests told us he had received a very upsetting letter from his alcohol clinic and was wondering if he should even continue his treatment there. We were able to call the clinic, clarify the letter’s intention and reassure our guest that although the letter was rather blunt, it was intended to help him get into rehab. He then began to feel calmer.
"HE’S LOOKING MUCH BETTER THIS WINTER"
Currently we have a small group of guests within the SK that is more close-knit that the rest, and they look out for each other. Last winter one of them, an older rough sleeper, began going downhill, losing weight, washing less. Another of the group started making sure he got enough warm clothing and ate enough; he also alerted SK staff. I am glad to report that this winter he is looking much healthier again.
