A well-known soup kitchen supporting Newcastle’s homeless and vulnerable people has won the backing of our North East team in the form of a £1,000 grant.

The People’s Kitchen applied to North East’s Community Champions initiative for the funds as it prepares for the challenges created by the winter.

Maureen Armstrong, who made the successful funding bid, said: “We’ve been helping our Friends since 1985, thanks to the North East’s kindness and generosity. The People’s Kitchen is run entirely by volunteers and receives no government funding.

“We are currently spending around £500 per week on things such as underwear, jogging pants, trainers and tops. This will only increase as the weather turns and our Friends will need warm clothing.

“It costs us around £250,000 a year to continue to offer the vital service we offer. Our caring supporters are who makes it possible for us to continue offering food and friendship to the most vulnerable in our community.

“Thank you to Persimmon Homes for helping us with the donation.”

Debbie Zaben, sales director for Persimmon Homes North East, said: “We are fortunate to be able to support our communities and give back in the areas in which we are building.

“The People’s Kitchen has been doing a fantastic job helping and supporting homeless and vulnerable people in Newcastle since 1985 and we are pleased to be able to give something back.”

For more information or to apply for Community Champions funding visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity