More than 170 guests gathered to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Soul Kitchen, raising an impressive £10,232 in a single evening to support the charity’s ongoing work within the Chester community.
The milestone event marked a decade of service for the local charity, which has spent the last ten years supporting people facing homelessness and hardship across the city. The anniversary ball brought together local businesses, supporters and community members for an evening of generosity, entertainment, and reflection.
Guests were welcomed with arrival drinks courtesy of Bar Lounge, CHANCE Clean Cider and Wrexham Lager, setting the tone for the celebrations ahead. The evening began with an unexpected and lively flash mob that transformed the room and immediately energised the crowd.
Following sponsor acknowledgements, Helen Anthony delivered a heartfelt address highlighting the realities of homelessness and the day-to-day impact of Soul Kitchen’s work. Her speech served as a powerful reminder of the importance of sustained community support.
Dinner was hosted at Chester Racecourse, with catering provided by Horseradish Catering. Guests praised both the quality of the meal and the seamless service delivered throughout the evening.
Entertainment continued with a lively round of “Boogie Bingo,” which saw attendees enthusiastically participating, dancing and raising additional funds. The atmosphere remained high as the evening moved into a charity auction featuring sought-after prizes, including signed football shirts, an overnight stay at the new The Reserve at Chester Zoo, and vouchers donated by local businesses. A well-supported raffle followed, with prizes generously contributed by organisations and individuals from across Chester and beyond.
In total, the event raised £10,232 – funds that will directly support Soul Kitchen’s ongoing efforts to assist vulnerable members of the local community.
The charity extended thanks to its sponsors and supporters, including Eagle Meadows and Hozah Parking Limited, alongside a wide network of businesses and individuals who contributed prizes, sponsorship and behind-the-scenes support.
Reflecting on the evening, organisers described it as a celebration not only of a decade of impact, but of the power of community. “This is what happens when people come together and truly back something that matters,” a spokesperson said. “We are incredibly proud to mark ten years of Soul Kitchen and grateful to everyone who helped make the night such a success.”
As Soul Kitchen enters its next chapter, the charity remains committed to supporting those who need it most – with the continued backing of the Chester community behind it.
