Charity

Homelessness charity challenges others to sleep outside for fundraiser

Keith Taylor of Carlowrie Castle with Tim Fidelo at Breakfast Bothy

The Breakfast Bothy, a small Edinburgh-based charity providing meals, connection, and support to people experiencing difficult times, is challenging others to join their sleep out fundraiser this Friday (19th of April).

Participants will spend the night without shelter on the grounds of Carlowrie Castle, with the aim to raise funds for The Breakfast Bothy to support more people in need. Their target of £25,000 will help expand the charity’s services and open The Bothy Boutique, a second-hand shop and community space in Marchmont.

The Bothy Boutique will also provide Breakfast Bothy guests the opportunity to earn a wage and be more deeply connected with the community, should they choose to.

“The Bothy Boutique will be more than a place to pick up second-hand gems, it will be a place for community connection. We’ve built strong relationships with our guests at The Breakfast Bothy and we’re listening to their needs to ensure we make a positive impact on their lives,” The Breakfast Bothy manager, Tim Fidelo says.

“Funds we raise through the sleep out will be used to help more people in need. Too many good people face the harsh reality of homelessness or are experiencing mental health challenges and loneliness in Edinburgh. We know that not everyone has access to the same opportunities or support, so we are here for anyone who needs us,” Mr. Fidelo says.

Starting at 8pm, the sleep out will be an opportunity for education and awareness about homelessness in Scotland. Unlimited coffee and tea will be available throughout the night, and breakfast will be served the following morning. Registrations to join the fundraiser or to donate can be done through The Breakfast Bothy’s website, thebreakfastbothy.com.

The Breakfast Bothy was opened in a bright yellow and red police box near The Meadows in 2020 with the aim to provide coffee, a meal and conversation to anyone in need. Since then, they have extended their opening hours to serve lunch, initiated a token scheme with local businesses, and supported countless people by providing food, support, and friendship.

The Breakfast Bothy and Carlowrie Castle are Carlowrie Group organisations founded by Scottish entrepreneur, Andrew Marshall. The group also includes London-based charity RESTART, innovation funding consultancy, Innovative Partners, and hospitality venue, Edinburgh Street Food. All Carlowrie Group businesses place a strong emphasis on creating positive impact for communities.

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