On 18 December the Russell Square Cab Shelter will be serving a roast Christmas dinner with all the trimmings between 10.00am and 10pm to the homeless. This will be the fourth year that Katie has supported the homeless at Christmas and the first time she is specifically looking to help homeless and lonely veterans. In addition to the lunch Katie is wanting to give her guests a little bit more and is hoping that Cab drivers, London residents and businesses will donate hats, socks, toiletries, underwear, chocolates and biscuits, that can be packed in shoe boxes and wrapped to be given as much needed Christmas gifts.
Katie Simmonds, Shelter Keeper says, “This year I am serving Christmas lunch for homeless and lonely veterans and am delighted that the Taxi Charity is supporting the day. I love London and despite the perception that people in London don’t have time in their busy lives to stop and help, I am always so very touched by the support I receive from my fellow Londoners to help those in need.”
Gary Belsey, Chairman of the Taxi Charity says, “The Taxi charity was formed 70 years ago by London’s licensed taxi drivers to support veterans of all conflicts and when Katie approached us to assist her in providing a free lunch for homeless or lonely veterans in London we were very happy to help.”
About the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans
The Taxi Charity was formed in Fulham in 1948, to work for the benefit, comfort and enjoyment of military veterans and arranges many trips every year for veterans from all conflicts. The charity offers international trips to Holland, Belgium and France, UK day trips to concerts or museums, transport to attend fundraising events, as well as special days out to catch up with friends and comrades. To fund and facilitate these outings, the charity is wholly reliant on generous donations from members of the public, businesses and trusts and the amazing group of London licensed taxi drivers who offer their time and vehicles free.
To find out more about the charity or to donate visit the website taxicharity.org.
About the Russell Square Cab Shelter
There are 13 Cab Shelters in London run and supported by the Cabmen’s Shelter fund. They are all Grade 11 listed buildings measuring no more than the size of a horse and cart and are exclusively used by London licensed cab drivers. The Russell Square Cab Shelter is located at WC1B 5BE. Katie would also appreciate the donation of a gazebo and out door heater to use on the day.
Plan Insurance has pledged to support this event by matching the Taxi Charity Donation planinsurance.co.uk.