Thirty-year-old Anthony McKiddie from the West End of Newcastle is living proof that, with support, anyone can turn their life around. Once homeless, Anthony used the services of The People’s Kitchen to survive during a difficult period of his life. Now, he has made a remarkable transformation and volunteers his time, serving those who are in need just as he once was.
Anthony, who spent years living on the streets and battling mental health challenges, credits The People’s Kitchen with helping him through the toughest times. “From a young age, I was in and out of hostels and found myself homeless. For around eight or nine years, I relied on the services provided here. But for the past five years, I’ve been on the other side, helping as a volunteer,” Anthony explained.
Now a skilled cook at The People’s Kitchen, Anthony takes pride in making hearty soups every Wednesday afternoon and helping with general kitchen duties. “I started volunteering in the clothing section before the pandemic, but when COVID-19 restrictions hit, I moved to working in the kitchen, helping to prepare takeaway food bags for those in need,” he said.
His involvement with The People’s Kitchen has had a profound impact on his mental health and overall well-being. “The staff here have been incredible, not just the ones I work with on Wednesdays but everyone. They’ve helped me through so much, from housing issues to mental health support. I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” he added.
Recently, Anthony celebrated some personal joy as well. “After two and a half years of trying, my partner and I welcomed a baby girl, Ava, into the world. Life is looking up in ways I never imagined.”
When asked what he would say to others who might need help, Anthony emphasised that The People’s Kitchen is a lifeline for many. “People think this service is just for the homeless, but it’s not. Since the credit crunch, we’ve seen people who are working but can’t afford to feed themselves or their families. They come here for a meal and leave knowing they can at least take care of their kids. It’s a service for anyone in need, not just those without homes.”
At The People’s Kitchen, volunteers are the backbone of the support provided to those in need. Genevieve Barlow, a dedicated volunteer, plays a key role in helping individuals move from life on the streets to establishing their first home through the ‘Make a House a Home’ project.
” The main focus of my work here is a project called ‘Make a House a Home’ which supports people who have moved off the streets into their very first flat,” Genevieve explained. “We put together parcels of essential household items—basic kitchen supplies, bedding, and more—to help make that transition smoother and more successful.”
The project aims to provide stability to those embarking on the next chapter of their lives. “It’s all about helping people make their new home feel like a home,” she added. “These might seem like small things to some, but they make a huge difference in giving people the foundation they need to rebuild.”
In addition to helping people moving off the streets, Genevieve and her team also help individuals who are not homeless but are struggling financially. “We often support people who are stretched to their limits financially. Something as simple as a broken kettle or toaster can be a major issue when you’re living on a tight budget. If someone is in real need, we try to step in and help where we can.”
She spoke warmly of Anthony McKiddie. “We’ve helped Anthony several times over the years, including settling into his new home. More recently, he and his partner have just had a baby girl, so we’ve been supporting them as they build their new family together. He’s a lovely lad—he used the kitchen services years ago, but now he’s giving back as a volunteer.”
The People’s Kitchen has just launched its Feed A Friend For A Fiver campaign which aims to provide a warm meal for everyone in need over the winter months. Donations to the 2024 “Feed a Friend for a Fiver” campaign can be made through The People’s Kitchen website at www.peopleskitchen.org.uk or via the JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/campaign/faffaf-2024. Every £5 donated will make a real difference, ensuring someone in need receives a hot meal and a moment of care this Christmas.