The BAFTA-winning actress, Miriam Margolyes, paid a special visit to the Harrogate Homeless Project recently, while on her current book tour.
Visiting staff and service users at the Springboard Day Centre, Miriam wanted the visit to raise awareness of the vital work at the Harrogate Homeless Project supporting those in need.
An accomplished actress, with a career spanning radio, stage and screen, Miriam was in Harrogate to publicise her latest book, Oh Miriam! At 82, it’s her biggest UK tour yet, following her memoir, This Much is True, which was in the bestseller charts for over a year.
Miriam Margolyes said: "I was honoured to visit the Harrogate Homeless Project and witness at first-hand the remarkable dedication of staff and volunteers and their powerful work, transforming lives. It's essential that we all address the issue of homelessness with compassion and empathy.”
Clair Challenor-Chadwick, volunteer Trustee of the Harrogate Homeless Project said: “I’m in awe of Miriam’s spirt and compassion. She captivates audiences worldwide with her incredible acting talent and is of course known as a national treasure thanks to her candid documentaries and chat show appearances. However, it’s her unwavering commitment to social causes, her kindness, and absolute belief in fairness and justice that truly sets her apart. Miriam didn’t hesitate to visit the project when asked.”
The Harrogate Homeless Project, a leading charity in the Harrogate district, has been providing vital services to individuals experiencing homelessness for over 30 years.
Their comprehensive approach focuses on not only providing accommodation and basic necessities, such as GP services, but also on supporting individuals in their journey towards independence, helping them rebuild their lives.
With support from donations the Harrogate Homeless Project has provided over 5,000 free lunches in 2023 to those in need, with demand for food and accommodation expected to increase during the winter months.
Francis McAllister, CEO of the Harrogate Homeless Project, said: “We were thrilled to welcome Miriam to the Springboard Day Centre and deeply appreciate her support in raising awareness about homelessness. Her visit will undoubtedly throw a spotlight on this cause, and I hope her compassion inspires the wider community to come together and make a difference in the lives of those in need."
Clair Challenor-Chadwick is also bringing a one-man acclaimed show of A Christmas Carol to Harrogate on 19 December at The Wesley Centre, Harrogate. Performed by actor Dominic Gerrard, Miriam is a huge fan of the production, declaring him a “brilliant young actor” and the Independent on Sunday said the show, which is directed by Tony Award winner, Tim Carroll, was a “worthy rival to Simon Callow’s one-man Carol.” Donations are encouraged to the Harrogate Homeless Project when booking. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
The Harrogate Homeless Project encourages community members, local businesses, and organisations to support their mission.
Through volunteering or donations, individuals and businesses can play an active role in helping vulnerable individuals find safety, stability, regain their confidence, and build a brighter future.
