For those of you wondering why you didn't get a Christmas card this year, it's because we felt that sending the Money to 
s developed she could no longer work and was forced to sell the restaurant. Soon after, Amanda separated from her husband and declared herself bankrupt, losing the family home in the process.
As time passed Amanda's condition worsened. At only 38 the arthritis in her joints causes such persistent pain that her ability to move is seriously limited. The arthritis in her hands means she struggles with the most basic of tasks leaving Amanda's daughters, just 13 and 8, to help her dress, cook, wash and walk up the stairs.
Amanda also has Sjorgens Disease which has left her with repeated mouth ulcers, food allergies and no sense of smell. Since falling over outside she has developed panic attacks and cannot walk far without becoming dizzy, disorientated and out of breath.
Out of savings Amanda could no longer pay her bills and spiralled into debt. In her own words: "I am often in the position where I have to ask myself do I pay my bills? Or do I feed my children?"
On hearing Amanda's plight Hospitality Action stepped in. We issued Amanda a grant of £1,000 towards her rent arrears as well as a smaller weekly grant to assist with the general cost of living.
In the words of Amanda's case worker: "This grant has made such a difference to Amanda's life and, without charities such as yours, there would be no assistance for people like her, people who have worked so hard for so many years."
With your support we can continue to help people just like Amanda. In this industry, we look out for each other. That’s what being a chef is all about - shared graft, shared passion, shared success. And for the past 17 years, The Staff Canteen has been your space to connect, to learn, to be inspired - a tribe built by chefs, for chefs.
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