Alternative Angels, the volunteer-led charity that serves hot meals at the Pilgrim Centre in Regent Circus, Swindon, on Mondays and Tuesdays, asked the public and local businesses for more support in an appeal reported by Swindon24 on Tuesday 21 July 2026. On the evening Swindon24 visited, volunteers welcomed 107 guests.
The charity helps people who are homeless, sofa surfing or facing food poverty. It was founded in 2016, when it served about 15 people beneath the steps at the Wyvern Theatre car park.
What does it need?
- Monthly running costs are about £2,500, covering rent, food packaging, cutlery and other essentials.
- Co-founder Jane Richards said funding is the biggest challenge and asked businesses to fundraise and to donate 25 meals a month.
- Fratellos and Piri Piri Chicken already donate meals each month.
- Zurich Community Foundation matches every pound the charity raises.
About 30 volunteers help each week. Home cooks prepare the meals and Duke of Edinburgh Award students make sandwiches. When guests move into accommodation, the charity also provides donated furniture and household items.
Ms Richards said: "Our job here is to make sure everybody has a hot meal, and that they're being seen and they're being heard."
Swindon Borough Council leader Gary Sumner, who visited the charity, said: "They're truly life-changing for people that attend."
Source: Swindon24.