The organisers of a monthly quiz night at the Devonshire Arms have handed over a cheque for over £1,500 to SMART, Bedford’s homelss charity after fundraising throughout the year.
The pub’s quiz night is hosted by Jim and Moria, and alongside the landlord and landlady, Ronnie and Rebecca Toms, they chosed SMART as their charity of the year.
“Being without a home must be absolutely appalling, and we are glad to do our bit to help,” said Ronnie.
The Devvy on Dudley Street, just off Castle Road, runs a popular quiz night on the first Monday of every month, and Ronnie and Rebecca make a point of donating the profits to a different charity every year.
“We are very much a community pub, and this is one way we can give back to the local Bedford community that supports us so well,’ said Rebecca.
Warmth and dignity
At the SMART Prebend Centre, people are welcomed with warmth and dignity and can get a hot drink, a nutritious meal, a shower, clean clothes and access to laundry facilities. They can also see visiting medical and addiction professionals, ensuring their basic health needs are not overlooked.
Homelessness affects people’s mental wellbeing as much as their physical health, so support for mental health and recovery is always available.
“Homelessness in Bedford is often hidden, but the need is very real,” said Louise Ritchie of SMART.
“Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, we can offer vital support, but we still rely on donations to keep our doors open and provide hot meals, showers, advice and safe places to stay.
“Gifts like this genuinely change lives. They help people in crisis to regain stability, rebuild confidence and move forward into safer and more secure futures.”
Across Bedford, SMART also provides emergency night beds to keep people safe, and when they are ready, temporary accommodation in modern flats that offer stability and a fresh start.
“SMART’s mission is to support people back into a home of their own,” said Louise.
“Our staff help with benefit claims, housing applications, job searches and interview preparation. Everything we do is focused on helping people rebuild their confidence and move towards a safer, more independent future.
“The work never ceases and funds are always needed.”
You can make an online donation to SMART’s Street Relief Winter Appeal here.
The Devonshire Arms are hosting Christmas Carols this Sunday (14 December) at 1.30pm. Join them to spread some festive joy.
