Passionate Waterlooville boy, 9, continues to drum up support and funds for campaign to feed homeless people

Determined charity supporter Albie Leahy has raised hundreds of pounds since launching a campaign last month to create shoeboxes for people who are homeless.

Albie, from Waterlooville, headed down to support Helping Hands Portsmouth on Sunday to dish up hot meals for 30 members of the homeless community.

With help from mum Laura, Albie made cottage pie and bread and butter pudding to serve up, while also donating a selection of essential items he has collected.

A week’s worth of breakfasts, eight sleeping bags and a tent were among the supplies Albie has been able to collect or purchase thanks to donations from residents of Denmead and Waterlooville.

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Albie said: ‘It felt really good because it was nice to see the homeless people being fed and getting warm food in their tummies. I really liked talking to them and seeing them smile.

‘It made me feel really good and happy as I knew they would feel better with food to eat. They sat and ate the food on the benches so I could see they had eaten.’

Although he was unable to hand out his shoeboxes, Albie aims to do this when lockdown restrictions are lifted.

He added: ‘I want to keep raising money and giving and cooking them food. I can’t wait to give out my shoe boxes.

‘I want to get to know them a bit more. I now know a few of their names. I can’t wait to see the dog again and give her more food.’

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Proud mum Laura has set up a PayPal sponsor a meal page to help Albie continue his heartwarming work in the community.

Laura said: ‘Words can’t explain how inspiring Albie is to us as parents. Myself and my husband are amazed by his motivation to do more to help others.

‘He is the most caring young man. I loved watching him smile serving the food and talking to all the homeless men and women on the streets.

‘Albie will carry on fundraising and cooking for the homeless of Portsmouth. He wants to make awareness of the Helping Hands Portsmouth charity and hopefully others will get involved.’

Visit paypal.me/pools/c/8w8I6M8o7c to donate.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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