| November 1, 2010 | to | December 31, 2010 |
“StreetSmart has become part of Christmas for us. It is everyone’s chance to do the right thing at the right time, with only the gentlest nudge.” – Gordon Ramsay
“As seasonal a presence on the menu as parsnips and winter greens, StreetSmart dishes always do your heart good.” – Stephen Fry
“All it takes is one well-fed quid next time you’re dining at any of the damned fine establishments taking part in this glorious campaign, and that tiny extra sum will go straight to an excellently worthwhile cause. Go on, it’ll make you feel good about that expanding waistband.” – Ian Rankin
This November and December, diners visiting restaurants across 18 cities in the UK, (including Brighton and Hove) will once again be asked to add £1 to their bill, as part of StreetSmart’s campaign to help the UK’s homeless.
StreetSmart raised a staggering £455,000 in the 2009 campaign and, now in its 13th year, will be building on this success with the help of 600 fantastic restaurants. Just some of the chefs pledging their support include Gordon Ramsay, Fergus Henderson, John Torode and Giorgio Locatelli.
StreetSmart operates as an umbrella charity providing funding to 95 homelessness charities across 18 cities. The chosen charities receive between £500 and £15,000, depending on the project to be funded. Once the winter emergency needs have been met, StreetSmart use any remaining funds to help projects that support people in finding jobs and achieving sustainable independent living.
Unlike other charities in the same bracket, StreetSmart ensures the money raised by restaurants is reinvested in the local area. Diners can therefore be assured that the money they donate will benefit their local charities, helping to shelter and feed the homeless during the cold winter months. Another unique aspect that sets StreetSmart apart, is that every penny raised goes directly towards helping the homeless, as all administration costs are covered by StreetSmart’s generous sponsor, Deutsche Bank.
Despite the recent economic downturn, StreetSmart has seen an increase in donations, proving that UK diners are still willing to give generously when they know their money is being put to good use.
www.streetsmart.org.uk
The Sussex Arts Collective rounds off its calendar for the year with its “Noel” Christmas Show at the Hop Gallery. It will feature many of Sussex’s best local artists and craftspeople as well as guests from a little further afield. The show will set out a full variety of art and craft from beautifully turned wood, jewellery, glass, textiles and ceramics, to fine art painting, printing and photography. The work is always of the highest standard, yet instantly appealing and very affordable.
