Lend support to homeless charity Street Smart this winter – by eating

Anyone on a night out in London knows that homelessness is a real problem. As well as exciting new restaurants and bars there are noticeably far too many people sleeping on the streets — and that figure is rising.

StreetSmart is a charity that aims to tackle this crisis head-on, with an annual fundraising initiative every November and December. A voluntary £1 per table is added to diners’ bills, with the money raised supporting projects near the restaurant where donations are made.

The charity launched in 1998 and has raised £7.9 million, all from £1 donations. This year, with more than 350 participating restaurants, pubs and hotels in the capital taking part, the charity hopes to top the half a million mark.

StreetSmart has garnered support from a number of names not only from within the industry but also from the likes of Stephen Fry. “I have no hesitation in supporting and recommending the work of charity StreetSmart,” he says.

Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Marcus Wareing described the initiative as "a fabulous charity that remembers the homeless at a time of year when we should be thinking of others."

You can do your bit by dining at restaurants such as Barrafina, The Palomar, Clipstone and Eight over Eight, which are participating. You’ll know a restaurant is involved if there’s a StreetSmart card on your table or if one is presented with your bill when you dine.

Last year the top earners for StreetSmart included the restaurant groups Harvey Nichols, MEATliquor and Polpo. Nick Jarman, General Manager at OXO Bar, Brasserie & Restaurant, says, "We're pleased to be partnering with StreetSmart this year. OXO has supported the campaign since it began in 1998 and we're very proud to be part of the initiative."

A full list of the participating restaurants, hotels and the homeless projects funded by StreetSmart can be found at streetsmart.org.uk.

Visit standard.co.uk/restaurants for the latest news and reviews from London’s food scene.

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