Celebrity chef helps charity cook up aid for homeless

A CITY charity which helps homeless people get back on their feet is to expand its work.

Fresh Start every year provides hundreds of families and individuals with basic household equipment which most people take for granted.

It is in the middle of a Cookers for Christmas campaign, backed by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin, to make sure former homeless people moving into a flat have the means to make themselves a hot meal.

It also gives out “starter packs” of crockery, cutlery, pots and pans, curtains, towels or electrical items. And now it is planning to boost its efforts in providing washing machines.

Managing director Keith Robertson said: “For most people who have been homeless, when get they get a house it’s just a shell and they rely on charities to furnish it.”

The Cookers for Christmas appeal, launched last month, has so far raised more than £7000.

Mr Kitchin, who donated £826 said: “This campaign is one close to my heart.

“Scotland boasts some of the best local produce available and eating well can be incredibly ­affordable.

“Giving people the tools to allow them to support themselves and their families is vital.”