Helen, a HealthBus patient, shared her heartfelt appreciation: “The meals here are superb! I get excited on a Thursday—it’s the only day in the week I get a hot meal. The people here are wonderful; they treat me with respect and have time to talk with me. Connecting with others has been really positive for me.”

Thanks to generous funding from the Neighbourhood Fund, Dorset Community Foundation, and BCP Food & Energy Support Fund, this initiative has been extended until April 2025. Weekly hot meals are now available to those experiencing homelessness, providing both sustenance and an invaluable sense of community.

The Thursday lunches have quickly become a highlight for HealthBus patients, offering not only a delicious meal but also an opportunity to connect with others in a supportive and respectful environment. These gatherings address the isolation and lack of nourishment that often accompanies homelessness.

The YMCA staff have gone above and beyond, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. The collaboration between the YMCA and HealthBus highlights the significance of local partnerships in tackling homelessness and ensuring access to basic needs like food and companionship.

The Christmas lunch, in particular, showcased the spirit of giving and solidarity. Patients left not only with full stomachs but with renewed hope and positivity. The ongoing support ensures that these moments of joy and connection continue, brightening the lives of many who face daily struggles.

This initiative is a testament to the power of community and compassion. It demonstrates how local organisations, with the support of dedicated funds, can make a profound difference in the lives of those most in need. As we look ahead to the continuation of this program, we celebrate the incredible impact these meals have already had—and will continue to have—on the HealthBus patients.