Struggles 2 Smiles: Annual Reports

Struggles 2 Smiles, with food projects at the heart of our charity, encourages communities to come together and support each other during unprecedented times. We seek contributions from individuals and businesses, not just financially but through volunteering, behind-the-scenes work, and food donations. In 2020-2022, we experienced significant growth, expanding into new projects and organizing more Hot Food Banks/Pantries across two counties in South Wales. Generous donations of £39,000 enabled us to purchase a catering trailer, equipment, and a van, allowing us to provide nearly 80,000 free hot meals to those in need, especially those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Partnering with local councils and organizations, we ensured our meals reached the right families and individuals. We introduced paid training activities in professional cookery and outdoor catering for young people, with all meals prepared going back to the community and homeless shelters. Our efforts significantly reduced food waste, food poverty, and child hunger, directly assisting families and homeless individuals across South Wales. As a developing charity with no paid employees, we rely on the generosity and spirit of others. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed, helping us surpass our goals. We are committed to growing and continuing our support for those most in need in the years to come.

Kate Stephens, Chairlady/Trustee

In the 2022-2023 annual report, Kate Stephens, Chairlady of Struggles 2 Smiles, highlights the organization’s significant progress in alleviating poverty, providing educational opportunities, and promoting social welfare within the community. Key achievements include training young individuals in catering and hospitality, conducting cooking demonstrations to raise food insecurity awareness, and operating pop-up hot food banks that provided 45,000 meals. The organization expanded volunteering opportunities, launched street food projects for youth employment, and won the Nisa MADL Award and Bupa Community Awards. Collaborations with SW Police Youth Trust and local officers, along with successful fundraising efforts securing £6,500 in lottery funds and £8,600 in donations, ensured program sustainability.