The One Love Project's Gala Dinner is set to raise funds to support the record breaking numbers of guests visiting their evening meal provision this year

September 25, 2024

The One Love Project is a registered charity offering practical and emotional support to the growing number of vulnerable adults and families in the Southend area.

At their site on Carnarvon Road, Southend, they provide 3 weekly evening meal provisions (2 mixed and 1 women only), as well as a weekly Food Bank, a free/low cost shop, washing facilities, and a range of other services to support those experiencing homelessness and struggling with the cost of living.

Over the years they have seen a significant uplift in visitor numbers, but this September has seen them break their own numbers over and over again - with the two highest guest numbers ever at their evening meal services.

To give some context, on Monday 16th September, 172 guests were welcomed at the evening meal service in just 90 minutes. Over the course of that week, the team provided 560 hot, nutritious meals. The average is now 165 guests per service.

During the first half of the year over 12,000 hot meals were provided which was a huge increase of 20% for the same period last year.

As winter approaches, The One Love Project will provide warm and dry clothing, sleeping bags and footwear to rough sleepers, as well as hosting a range of Christmas services across December. In order to raise vital funds they are hosting their second annual Gala Dinner, with all proceeds going directly to cover the Christmas period.

The Gala Dinner is taking place on Saturday 30th November, at The Boundary, Garon’s Park. Featuring a live auction, raffle, entertainment and a three course meal; the event is being hosted by John Oakes from Radio Essex. The Show Choir will also be performing on the night.

They are aiming to raise £15,000 to provide hot meals, food parcels and some treats over the Christmas period to rough sleepers, vulnerable members of the community and families who are struggling.

To book tickets to the Gala Dinner and support their cause, email gala@theoneloveproject.co.uk.