Hungry Hearts for the Homeless in Maidstone is facing a £1,000 cost increase due to parking fees for their volunteers.
Recently, things changed for the volunteers. A traffic warden approached them just before closing time. They said parking exemptions were unavailable. As a result, seven volunteers paid £2 each to park.
Andy Pike runs the soup kitchen and contacted the council for assistance. He estimates parking costs around £1,000 per year and wonders why they must pay, given they help the community and its vulnerable members.
The soup kitchen has operated since 2017. Volunteers feed the homeless and help people, ensuring they are safe and cared for. Andy appreciates any help the council can provide.
A council spokesperson acknowledged the volunteers’ work and stated they value the voluntary sector’s help. They will contact Hungry Hearts to offer support.
Andy says the group offers more than just food; they act as a “family” to the homeless, providing different types of support. He hopes the volunteers will receive parking permits.
Hungry Hearts operates Monday and Wednesday, serving from 7pm to 8pm. They feed about 50 people each time. The council is seeking solutions that are suitable for all.