On New Years Day, a group of us will be completing an open water swim in the icy cold waters of Salford Quays. We will endure the freezing cold temperatures for around 30mins, safe in the knowledge that we will return to our warm homes afterwards.

Sadly, for many this winter, a warm home is not an option and many are at risk of hypothermia and death as we have recently witnessed.

But with charities like the Soup 'N' Smiles Project there is hope...

Please, please donate if you can. It will truly make a difference

The Soup 'N' Smiles project operates as a mobile soup kitchen based in the heart of Manchester at Piccadilly Gardens. What started with a bit of soup, a few slices of bread and a handful of service users over three years ago has now rapidly grown into being a key service for many of the homeless and needy in Manchester. Soup N Smiles is currently able to serve over 200 people on a weekly basis. As well as serving hot food, drinks and treats, we provide sleeping bags, covers, toiletries and warm clothing whenever possible. All of which are obtained through donations. In addition, signposting our service users to access vital services and providing emotional support is an integral part of what we do. As solely volunteers run this project, we rely exclusively on the kindness and generosity of others.

The urgent response to the first national Covid-19 lockdown has already shown that a lot can be achieved when the political will is there. However, although rough sleepers were brought in off the streets, the challenge remains to stop others taking their place as the economy continues to be hit by the coronavirus crisis. Only this week did we encounter a person who, before the pandemic began, was working as a manager in retail. The end of furlough saw him out of work, unable to pay his rent and he sadly lost his home. The impact is truly devastating. Greater Manchester Police, who we regularly work with, confirmed this week that they are seeing an increasing amount of new faces, per week on the streets of Manchester. Hence, why the demand for our service is increasing rapidly and desperately needs support and more donations. With the rise of rough sleepers and inadequate capacity to accommodate them, the consequences are fatal. Just this month alone, we have tragically lost four individuals who previously were to stand with us, chat and share some time together. It is tragic, but we can make a difference.