ISLANDERS flocked to the Royal Square yesterday for the Shelter Trust’s annual Soup Kitchen fundraiser.
Sponsored by LGT Wealth Management and organised by Shelter Trust supporters, the event saw a wide range of soups donated by chefs from local hotels, restaurants and organisations.
There was also festive music and carol singing performed by school and Island choirs, with chilly, drizzly conditions doing little to puncture the festive air.
For a minimum donation of £3, Islanders were able to enjoy a mug of soup – there were 40 flavours on the menu – and some bread.
Funds raised will support the work of the trust, which provides accommodation and support services for homeless Islanders.
The event was expected to serve 3,000 cups of soup and 3,000 chunks of bread.
Neville Benbow, of the Shelter Trust, explained that the Soup Kitchen was the charity’s “principal” fundraiser.
He said: “It gets bigger and better every year – people always look forward to it. For us, the most important thing is that it raises the profile of the homeless community in Jersey, particularly at this time of year.”
He also thanked all of the volunteers – including Dr Karen Kyd (pictured above), wife of Jersey’s Lieutenant-Governor – who set up and ran the Soup Kitchen.
“When you are serving 40 soups you need a significant team of people.
“We are so grateful to our supporters and sponsors,” he said.
Dan McAlister, the chief executive of LGT Wealth Management, added: “We are proud to support this vital event once again, reflecting our dedication to the Jersey community and admirable support of the work delivered by the Shelter Trust in aiding the Island’s homeless.”
The Soup Kitchen, an idea first formed by Shelter supporter Michelle Cuthbert 26 years ago, has to date raised almost £250,000 for the trust. It has grown to become the principal fundraising event for the charity, which supports more than 600 individuals each year
