Businesses thanked for supporting St Petrock's

Exeter's St Petrock's kitchen is a hive of activity ahead of December 25!

Linda (centre) their catering manager has pulled in some extra volunteers to help her prepare for the big day, where we're cooking Christmas lunch with all the trimmings for between 50 and 60 homeless and vulnerably housed people in the city.

A spokesperson said: "We want to say a huge thank you to all those businesses who have supported us throughout the year, and especially during this Christmas period, where each day we're continuing to be overwhelmed by your generosity.

"We rely on you, our wonderfully generous local community for the vast majority of our funding, as we don't receive any statutory income, so your support continues to be absolutely essential for us to continue to provide much relied on services for homeless people in the city.

"Sadly, homelessness in Exeter remains at crisis levels, after rough sleeping doubled last year.

"Christmas is a very tough time for our homeless clients and many simply try to forget it is happening, but we do what we can (with your help) to ensure people feel cared about.

"Here are some examples of your support this Christmas period. Our sincere apologies if I have missed anyone out, but please do remind us below, if so.
Don't be shy!

Home-made Indian curries from the local hashtag Hindu community
Artisan Christmas puddings – Figgy's Christmas Puddings
Two Christmas turkeys - one from Pale Farm Turkeys
Individually decorated Christmas cakes
One large 30cm Christmas cake
A joint of venison
Joints of beef (which we’re giving to our tenants for their lunch)
Several large bags of bread – Exeter Cathedral
Large donation of fruit – Bishop Fleming Chartered Accountants
Van and carloads of clothes and survival gear from offices, individuals, community groups and schools, including Savills
Other much appreciated fundraising from pub quizzes, carol services and carol singers!

"Students at University of Exeter EX4 team (and their friends) have worked their socks off, with their events raising hundreds of pounds for us and deserve a special mention!

"As do AB Brand and Marketing Agency and ALL TOLD film-makers for all their expert help and support with our Christmas Appeal 2023!

"Thank you so much Exeter businesses. We couldn't do this without you. 

"Merry Christmas and a peaceful new year."