Hot Drinks for Hope This Christmas
Turning Warmth Into Hope: Baboo Gelato Partners with the Lantern Trust
As the festive season approaches and we're all thinking about ways to give back, we're excited to announce a very special initiative that's close to our hearts here at Baboo Gelato.
On Sunday 21st December, every single hot drink we sell will support people facing homelessness in our community.
That's right – 100% of proceeds from every coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and warming beverage sold at our kiosks will go directly to the Lantern Trust's Big Christmas Appeal. No deductions, no admin fees – just pure, direct support for vulnerable people in Weymouth and Portland who need it most.
Why the Lantern Trust?
If you're not familiar with the Lantern Trust, let us introduce you to an organisation doing truly remarkable work right here on our doorstep.
Founded in 1983, the Lantern Trust is an independent local charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable and marginalised people in the Weymouth and Portland area. They're not just about providing a roof over someone's head – though that's incredibly important. They're about building lasting, trusting relationships that empower people to rebuild their lives.
Their services include:
- Housing support and accommodation
- Assisted rent deposit scheme
- Benefits advice and advocacy
- Crisis response and frontline practical support
- Mental health support
- Ongoing support to help people maintain their tenancies
And this year? They've seen record numbers of people approaching their services in housing crisis.
The Power of £500
Here's something that really struck us when we learned about the Lantern Trust's work: for an average of just £500, they can house someone and provide the ongoing support they need to maintain their tenancy and truly thrive.
Think about that for a moment. Five hundred pounds can be the difference between sleeping rough and having a safe, warm home. Between desperation and hope. Between crisis and a fresh start.
The Lantern Trust's Big Christmas Appeal aims to raise £10,000 to pay for rent advances and deposits – enough to house 20 people and give them that crucial foundation to rebuild their lives.
Real Stories, Real Impact
The impact of the Lantern Trust's work isn't just about numbers – it's about real people whose lives have been transformed.
One person they helped shared: "Life had hit the buffers. I was sleeping on a beach with nowhere to go. The Lantern listened, housed me, and I began to see a future for myself."
Another said: "We couldn't afford to pay the deposit needed for our flat. The Lantern offered help when we had no more options."
These aren't just testimonials – they're stories of hope, dignity restored, and lives transformed.
How Your Coffee Can Change a Life
"We wanted to do something meaningful this Christmas," says Annie, Founder, Baboo Gelato. "The Lantern Trust does incredible work right here in our community. By donating 100% of proceeds from hot drinks on the 21st, we'd love to be able to provide at least one rent deposit for someone at this time of year – helping them take that crucial first step towards a safe home."
Here's how simple it is to make a difference:
- Visit any Baboo Gelato kiosk on Sunday 21st December (Lyme Regis, West Bay or Swanage)
- Order your favourite hot drink (or two, or three – we won't judge!)
- Know that 100% is going directly to housing someone in need
Your morning cappuccino? That's contributing to someone's rent deposit. Hot chocolates for the family? That's supporting vulnerable people in our community. A latte while you're out shopping? That's helping to end homelessness right here in Weymouth.
Why This Matters to Us
At Baboo Gelato, we've always believed in being more than just a business – we want to be part of the fabric of our community. We're here because of the wonderful people of Weymouth and Portland, and Christmas feels like the perfect time to give something back.
Homelessness can happen to anyone. A job loss, a relationship breakdown, a health crisis – life can change in an instant. What matters is that when people need support, there are organisations like the Lantern Trust ready to step in with compassion, practical help, and genuine care.
And what matters to us is that we can play a small part in supporting that vital work.
Join Us in Making a Difference
So here's our invitation to you: join us on Sunday 21st December. Bring your friends, bring your family, come warm up with a delicious hot drink – and know that together, we're doing something really special.
Every cup counts. Every visit matters. Every pound goes directly to helping someone take that first step towards a safe, stable home this Christmas.
Because at the end of the day, isn't that what Christmas is really about? Coming together as a community, looking out for one another, and offering warmth – both literal and metaphorical – to those who need it most.
We can't wait to see you on the 21st. Let's make this Christmas one that changes lives.
Want to support the Lantern Trust directly? You can donate to their Big Christmas Appeal here: https://www.stewardship.org.uk/pages/The_Lantern_Trust_Big_Christmas_Appeal
Learn more about the incredible work they do: Visit their website at https://lanterntrust.org.uk
See you on Sunday 21st December – let's warm hearts together this Christmas. ☕🎄💙