Breakfast with a purpose: Enriching lives and tackling homelessness
3 minute read
Picture this: It’s an early morning on Albert Road, Southsea. The sun is barely up, but inside The Lifehouse, a local charity supporting homelessness, the kitchen is already bustling. The scent of fresh coffee and warm toast fills the air as volunteers prepare hot breakfasts for those who need it most.
For many, this is more than just a meal. It’s a moment of comfort, a break from the cold, and a reminder that they’re not alone.
But The Lifehouse is so much more than a food kitchen. It’s a space where people can warm up, recharge, and find support. Whether that’s through a meal, guidance on next steps, or simply a friendly conversation.
Beyond breakfast, The Lifehouse also runs a food bank on select days, providing individuals with a bag of essential groceries at the end of the day. This crucial service ensures that those in need have access to nutritious meals throughout the week, complementing the breakfast offerings and helping families tackle food insecurity with dignity and hope.
HOW SMI GETS INVOLVED:
SMI believes in the power of community, which is why tackling homelessness is one of our core social pillars.
Once a month, our team proudly volunteers, serving hot breakfasts and offering support to those facing hardship.
Every morning that we volunteer at The Lifehouse, we:
- Serve hot breakfasts - from eggs and toast to tea and coffee, providing nourishment and warmth.
- Offer a listening ear - because sometimes, a conversation is just as valuable as a meal.
- Create a welcoming space - where everyone is treated with dignity and kindness.
MORE THAN JUST BREAKFAST
While we take pride in serving breakfast, SMI goes the extra mile to help the community. One of our other initiatives is our clothes swap parties. Any leftover clothes from these events are donated to The Lifehouse, where individuals can receive three items of clothing each week. This effort not only helps those in need to stay warm and comfortable but also promotes sustainability and community engagement, which are also important pillars within our business.
A SMALL ACT, BUT A BIG CHANGE…
A hot breakfast might seem simple, but to those experiencing homelessness, it can be the first step towards a better day.
It’s warmth, and a small moment of normality in an otherwise difficult situation and we believe that change always starts with action. Which is why it’s important to not only talk about it, but also show up, serve and support.
If you want to make an impact, getting involved is easier than you think. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, supporting The Lifehouse or similar charities can lead to significant change. It’s as simple as reaching out and offering your support!
When businesses and communities unite, small acts of kindness can lead to lasting transformation, and it's truly inspiring to witness.
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