Swindon’s homeless and vulnerable residents are now getting a nutritious boost thanks to the charity Big Breakfast Plus.
The organisation, which has long provided free cooked breakfasts at The Pilgrim Centre, has recently launched a new initiative called Your Five-a-Day Plus, offering fruit bags to its visitors.
This addition allows guests to take away a variety of fresh fruit after enjoying their breakfast, with the first week seeing an impressive 1,800 pieces of fruit handed out. Visitors can choose from a wide selection including bananas, grapes, apples, plums, and apricots, which have quickly become a favourite.
The fruit initiative is funded by the Government Household Support Fund, allocated by Swindon Borough Council, offering a boost to the charity’s regular services. Speaking on the scheme, Charlotte Mannion, Chair of Trustees at Big Breakfast Plus, said, “We were unexpectedly offered £3,000 by the council from the Government Household Support Fund, and we all thought offering fruit would be a good addition to the breakfast we already provide.”
The scheme has been warmly welcomed by the charity’s guests, and the generosity of the community has shone through with donations of apples and plums. “It’s gone down very well with our guests, who are enjoying this extra food we are able to offer,” added Charlotte.
Big Breakfast Plus remains the only charity in Swindon offering free cooked breakfasts, cereal, toast, and unlimited hot drinks every day, creating a warm, welcoming environment for those in need. Open from 7.30am to 9am daily, the charity relies on donations to keep this crucial service going. For those wishing to support, further information can be found on their website.
