More than just soup – Encouragement
The 5th in our series of more than just soup. 5 minutes in the hot seat.
What is your name, nickname, pseudonym or prefer not to say?
Mrs A!
How long have you been volunteering at Newbury Soup Kitchen?
Almost a year!
What keeps you busy when you are not volunteering?
Organising weddings, fundraising, drinking wine, open water swimming and walking my Cocker Spaniel Daisy
Can you remember your 1st day at Newbury Soup Kitchen?
Oh yes it was fun and I chatted a lot!
Did you have any preconceived ideas about Homeless & Vulnerable before you started volunteering? And have these now changed?
Yes I did and my views have changed hugely. I did not realise that sometimes people actually choose to sleep rough. I did not realise how complex addiction and rehab can be.
Why Newbury Soup Kitchen?
Having volunteered for Launchpad in Reading, I felt I wanted to offer encouragement & support to a homeless charity as no one should have to go hungry or not have a roof over their heads. I am really saddened when I hear a client tell me that they may not have eaten for days.
What is the one thing you would say to someone that is thinking about volunteering?
If you want to be part of something special, where people are genuinely kind, caring, accepting, volunteering & helping those less fortunate can be hugely rewarding and I encourage you to take that step.
What is one of your fondest memories thus far about Newbury Soup Kitchen?
There are so many I couldn’t possibly say, it is so hugely rewarding when a client is having a great day – you put all your own worries & concerns to the back of your mind. It really is great karma.
And finally If you could offer any advice to our homeless & vulnerable clients what would it be?
There is always light at the end of the tunnel, we are here to help you should you decide to take the step to recovery and want to get well again.
N