To our Friends, Volunteers and Supporters,

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, we have made the tough decision to temporarily suspend the operation of Soul Kitchen at both locations and Outreach Program. Following the government and medical advice, this is the most responsible course of action to protect the health and safety of our volunteers and the community we serve. Social distancing will help reduce the spread of the virus.

To ensure our charity beneficiaries continue to have blankets to provide warmth for people who are at risk or are experiencing homelessness in the coming months, we have just made our single biggest yearly purchase of blankets. These blankets will be distributed to St Vincent de Paul Society Soup Vans, Launch Housing, Bolton Clarke, Big Umbrella and other charities and not-for-profit programs.

Last night we held our final Soul Kitchen service at both Preston and Braybrook. It was when we saw the tears flow from the eyes of volunteers and friends alike that we knew how important the program it is. For many people, Soul Kitchen is a place of love, safety and a place they can mingle with other people. It is also trust – when we made the announcement, people who are already living challenging lives, came up to me to tell me they understood and supported our decision.

We are thankful to all our supporters and volunteers for standing with us during this challenging time. We feel blessed to be able to impact on the lives of so many each week. We will be missing our friends and volunteers who really are just part of our one big modern family – but know this is the responsible thing to do. We must all use this time to look after and love each other. Stay in touch via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates and to find out when we reopen. We will get through this, and we will be back.

Together we will keep our community warm,

Warren Tu – Co Founder & President