A campaign that helps the city’s homeless off the streets is back.
Each year StreetSmart Leeds – backed by the Yorkshire Evening Post – raises money to help those without a home.
Customers eating out at participating restaurants throughout November and December are asked to donate £1 per table at the end of their meal.
All funds raised are donated to good causes in the city.
Nine restaurants committed their support to the 2012 campaign at a pre-launch held at Chino Latino at the Park Plaza in Leeds city centre yesterday.
This year proceeds will be gifted to Caring For Life; Simon on the Streets; St George’s Crypt; RAISE; Create and Teen Challenge – all groups working with the homeless in Leeds.
Rachel McAlley, campaign manager, thanked those already on board and urged others to lend their support.
She said: “I want to thank everyone who has signed up this year because after speaking to 40 Leeds restaurants about StreetSmart it became quite clear people are concentrating on making Christmas a success as times are still tough in the industry.
“Despite this, year-on-year we have raised more money, even if it’s just been £500 more it’s terrific considering we have gone through three years of a recession.
“I am impressed that the people of Leeds are still dining out and finding that extra £1 when it counts.”
She added: “And it’s never too late to sign up and take part.”
Participating StreetSmart Leeds restaurants are: Chino Latino, Create and Fourth Floor at Harvey Nichols in Leeds city centre; Salvo’s and Salvo’s Salumeria in Headingley; Samuel Valentine The Urban Food Hall in Allerton Bywater and The Olive Tree at Rodley, Chapel Allerton and Far Headingley.
For the second consecutive year, Park Plaza hotel in Leeds will back SleepSmart, a sister campaign, which will collect £1 from each guest during November and December. Sponsor Deutsche Bank will cover both StreetSmart and SleepSmart’s costs, ensuring every penny collected stays in Leeds.
For more information, or to take part, call Rachel McAlley on 07963 577 034.
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