A LEADING Southend charity is celebrating after being handed a £13,500 cash injection to help feed 200 people in need a week.

The St Vincent’s Centre, based in Short Street, was handed the extra cash by NatWest as part of its “power of a helping hand” fund and has been used to help upgrade the charity’s kitchen.

The improvements have enabled the centre to provide low-cost hot meals to an additional 200 people each week and a new commercial catering service, adding a new revenue stream to boost the coffers of the charity.

The charity and bank also teamed up to hold an event yesterday aimed at helping businesses in the area explore how they can support charities to provide essential help and support.

Daniel Cauchi, centre manager at St Vincent’s Centre, added: “We have really enjoyed working with NatWest and we’re grateful for their continued support which has been a game-changer for the support we’re able to provide.

“This event was an excellent opportunity for local businesses to see firsthand the impact of collaboration between business and charities, and to find new ways to contribute to the local community.”

St Vincent’s Centre provides a range of support to vulnerable people in the community with foodbank services, providing hot meals and outreach services.

Val Neale, unit leader at NatWest’s Southend customer contact centre, said: “We are thrilled to be working alongside St Vincent’s Centre to support their ambitions, and help to provide dignified support to local people who need it.

“This event underscores the power of collaboration between businesses and charities. By working together, we can create meaningful change and provide much-needed support to our community.”

Darcie Catling, a NatWest employee, spent a day volunteering at the centre to see first hand the work that Daniel Cauchi and his team carry out every single day in the community.

She said: “It’s incredibly beautiful to help people in need and give them a supporting hand and company.”