This year we’re proud to announce once again SquareMeal will be partnering with the restaurant-backed charity StreetSmart.
As you may know, StreetSmart runs a campaign every November and December which raises money for homeless people by adding a voluntary £1 per table to diners' bills. This small contribution from us all when enjoying a chef-made meal out contributes hugely to the charity’s work. In 2018 the company raised £735,000 which went towards meals, beds, jobs, training schemes and housing advice for those who might be struggling. Moreover, since beginning in 1998 StreetSmart has raised more than £9,600,000 to help various homeless charities in the UK.
Across the country there are hundreds of restaurants who take part, so do look out for the little slip that comes with your bill that allows you to donate should you wish. This year lots of places have come up with fun and innovative ways to get guests on board, like Fallow restaurant who are donating £1 for every mask sold to guests who might have forgotten their own. Other London hot spots include Barrafina, Chiltern Firehouse, Core by Clare Smyth and Helene Darroze at The Connaught. As well as fine dining establisments there are also plenty of casual places to pick from, where you can grab a bite to eat while making a difference.
If you run a hospitality business and want to be involved then there is zero cost involved for participating restaurant. If you would like to support the scheme, you can sign up on the StreetSmart website or get more info by emailing glenn.pougnet@streetsmart.org.uk.
By signing your restaurant up to StreetSmart this year, alongside chefs such as Clare Smyth, Fergus Henderson and Monica Galetti, you’ll be helping to feed and support those most in need this winter and beyond.
“StreetSmart is a fabulous charity that remembers the homeless in our city at a time of year when we should be thinking about others. More importantly, our guests agree.”
- Marcus Wareing, Chef, Restaurateur
Looking for more ways to help out? Here's everything you need to know about Food Behind Bars: The charity hoping to transform prison food