A celebratory charity ball held to recognise a decade of Soul Kitchen Chester has raised more than £10,000 to support its work with people facing homelessness and hardship.
The event, hosted at Chester Racecourse, brought together supporters from across the city, with more than 170 attendees contributing to the fundraising total.
On the evening of 12 February, guests helped generate £10,232, providing additional resources for the organisation’s outreach, food provision and support services.
Established in 2015, Soul Kitchen Chester delivers hot meals, essential supplies and guidance to individuals in crisis, and has developed into a key frontline service within the community.
The anniversary celebration opened with drinks provided by Barlounge, CHANCE Clean Cider and Wrexham Lager before an unexpected flash mob surprised guests as the host took to the stage.
The event was organised by trustee and special advisor Steven Hesketh, founder of Hospitality Hero and owner of the Chester Townhouse.
Steven said: “Our little vision came to life in a room full of people who showed up, gave big, and reminded me why our community still wins.
“By the end of it all, we raised £10,232. Just over ten grand in one night, for a charity that genuinely changes lives. That’s what happens when people come together and actually back something that matters.”
Guests were served a three-course dinner prepared by Chester Racecourse and Horseradish, followed by Boogie Bingo, an auction and a raffle featuring a range of donated prizes.
Items included signed football shirts, a stay at Chester Zoo Reserve and a voucher from Dandy’s.
Helen Anthony MBE, Chief Executive of Soul Kitchen Chester, addressed the audience with an update on homelessness in the city and the charity’s ongoing work.
Support for the evening came from a number of local organisations, including Chester Zoo, Downtown in Business, Adam Dandy, Hotel Wrexham and ASG Audio Visual.
