KIND-HEARTED people have helped replace supplies stolen by burglars from a group that helps the homeless in Swindon

Donations have flooded in since the garage where The Night Kitchen Swindon stores food, clothing and bedding was targeted last week. 

Founder and committee member Kevin Maddison, who discovered the break-in during the early hours of December 12, said: “We’ve been inundated with donations from members of the public.

“It’s a massive sigh of relief for us. We’re so grateful. 

“We were panicking about what we would do throughout the bad weather and over Christmas, but the community has come together and helped immensely.”

The Night Kitchen provides free hot meals, bedding and clothing to the homeless on Thursday evenings from a stall on Edgeware Road. It feeds around 60 people each week. 
Kevin added: “We’ve managed to replace a lot of the food. 

"People have donated tents, quilts, bedding, clothing, so it looks like we’ll be able to provide a proper Christmas to our homeless this year after all.”

The group plans to cook a Christmas dinner this week. 

“There will be pigs in blankets, we’ll have the full works,” said Kevin.

Local businesses have come forward to offer support. 

“It’s really heartwarming and very inspiring,” said Kevin.  

“Especially when people come together for the same purpose and that is to help anyone in an unfortunate position throughout Christmas.

“We’ve got an awful lot of homeless in Swindon. But with everything there is a positive, and despite what’s happened it’s brought everyone together and there’s lots more awareness about the issue,” he said.    

If any other homeless groups are struggling to source enough supplies Kevin encouraged them to make contact through their Facebook Group and he will redistribute any spare items. 

Anyone wanting to make a donation should also contact The Night Kitchen Swindon on Facebook.