For the past 10 years PCSO Sarah Curry has donned her apron every week to help the homeless and vulnerable in Llandudno.

When Brenda started Hope Restored, a Llandudno based charity that offers a wide range of help and advice to those who are homeless, 10 years ago in Chapel Street, Sarah was only too happy to get stuck in to help the friendly team of volunteers, many of whom had sought out help when they found themselves homeless.

The Lighthouse Community Church on West Shore is now where the homeless go twice a week for a hot meal, a shower, a change of clothing, advice and help from other agencies.

The main part of the church is used to store items of food, clothing, shoes and bedding which have been donated, and there are rooms set aside where homeless people can sleep in a safe, secure and dry environment.

And by now, as soon as Sarah walks through the door her police jacket is off, her apron is on and she helps to cook and serve up the dinners for all those who drop in for the duration of the sessions.

“I was originally invited to attend by a homeless person and within a short time I was helping out – talking and listening to people’s problems. I love the fact that the people attending the church feel comfortable and safe talking to me.  It makes me happy knowing that my help and support really helps these people and it’s greatly appreciated,” said Sarah.

Brenda, with the help of her daughter Victoria, Rob and other volunteers, set up the charity after realising there was a desperate need for action in the Llandudno area to help the vulnerable in the community.

“I know what it’s like to be homeless, hungry and in need of help. Now I am giving something back.” said Brenda.

Brenda and her dedicated team not only prepare meals in the church and offer a wide range of help and advice, but they can also be seen delivering food parcels, clothing and emergency back packs can be issued to those who require them.

“You don’t realise how many people are in need of help. People don’t see the poverty that’s around us,” said Victoria, a trained nurse, whose own children can often be seen interacting with everyone visiting the church.

Rob became homeless when he moved from Manchester. After the right help and support, he now helps to find homes for others who attend the church. 

Stu attends the Hope Restored Church on a weekly basis to engage with other agencies. Thanks to Brenda’s help in his time of need, he is getting his confidence back and his life is back on track. It’s also nice to have a friendly police face that is approachable and Sarah is always willing to give advice.

“Brenda is the angel of the North. It is such a positive, happy place, where we get all the help we need, and having the police involved makes it even better,” said Dean, stressing that Sarah is always there if there is problem people want to talk about. Plus she makes the best custard!

“I found myself at a low point in my life where I needed a little bit of help. I had heard about Brenda and popped in to see if she could help as everything else I had tried just didn’t seem to work.

"I’m now back on my feet and in a much better place with my life. As a thank you to Brenda and all the volunteers at Hope Restored I now volunteer my time at the church,” said Dennis.

The doors at Hope Restored will even be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day where people will be able to share other people’s company and enjoy traditional festivities.

“So if you know of anyone who is alone on Christmas day and would like some company, please send them our way as everyone is welcome!”

“Christmas is good here, the shops donate all sorts. It’s like a big youth club and we are like one big happy family. Each and every person who comes through the doors is met with a smile and a warm welcome. They will receive a three course meal on Christmas day and a small gift. Seeing people benefitting is all the thanks I need.” said Brenda.

In the run up to Christmas Brenda and the team are planning a big food drive to see people through the winter months. Any donations of food it will be very welcomed and greatly received.

“I’m so grateful for Sarah’s help and time, the people here like her and trust her and that’s hard to find,” said Brenda.

“We are so grateful for everything that is donated, but we are constantly fundraising and always trying to keep ourselves going – that’s what we’re here for,” she added.