THE Royal Bank of Scotland teamed up with Social Bite to host a special Christmas dinner for individuals who have experienced homelessness. The festive gathering unfolded in the elegant setting of the bank’s boardroom at St Andrew’s Square in Edinburgh on December 19, 2023.
The Royal Bank has been a stalwart supporter of Social Bite’s mission to combat homelessness since 2016. Over the years, their commitment has extended beyond monetary contributions, encompassing donations, gifts-in-kind, and strategic assistance, totaling an impressive £1 million. Additionally, Royal Bank employees have actively participated in fundraising activities, contributing over £100,000 through sponsored sleepouts, abseils, and Christmas appeals.
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The event brought together residents and staff from Social Bite’s Village in Edinburgh, a collaborative effort with Cyrenians designed to provide a supportive community for individuals affected by homelessness. The Village empowers its residents to lead independent lives, and Social Bite has ambitious plans to establish two new Villages in South Lanarkshire and Dundee over the next two years.
Judith Cruickshank, Chair of the Royal Bank of Scotland Board, highlighted the significance of their collaboration with Social Bite. “Building on our long-term support for Social Bite, we are helping to make Christmas a little more enjoyable for some of the most vulnerable,” she said.
Sara Rees, Director at Social Bite, expressed deep gratitude for the Royal Bank’s ongoing support, emphasising its crucial role in various transformative projects aimed at breaking the cycle of homelessness. She particularly noted the special Christmas experience created for the Village residents, underlining the positive impact of such initiatives.Rees said, “we are so grateful for Royal Bank of Scotland’s support. They have played a key part in a number of transformational projects helping people break the cycle of homelessness, and it is really special that they have created this Christmas experience for the residents of the Village.”
