Harrogate restaurant offers free meals for vulnerable on Christmas Day

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Portofino Ristorante on Albert Street is inviting vulnerable people across Harrogate for a special lunch on December 25 between 2pm and 4pm.

The restaurant published a Facebook post this week calling for support from the community by spreading the word.

It said: “We understand how difficult this time of year can be and would like to invite anyone who is homeless to join us at Portofino Ristorante between 2-4pm on Christmas Day for a free meal.

“Please share this post and if you pass any rough sleepers in the area or know of anyone who is homeless, please let them know.”

The team is also calling for people to donate warm items of clothing such as hats, scarves or sleeping bags which can be gifted to attendees.

Owner Ozgur Babat, who also offered free school meals for children over October half term, says he wants to give something back to the community after such a difficult and unusual year.

He said: “The local community really support us a lot and we want to help people in the same way they have helped us.

“It breaks my heart to think of people out there cold and alone on Christmas Day and I just wanted to do what I could to make a difference.

“We could all be in that position just by one slight change in our lives so it means a lot to me to know I can do something just to help.

“Helping people makes me happy and I’m not trying to be a hero, I’m just a human and I like to do what I can.

“It’s a tough time for everyone, we are all struggling but I know one day it will pass if we stand together to get through it.”

The restaurant has already received lots of donations.

Mr Babat added: “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to the amazing Harrogate community - without them we are nothing.

“This is not just something Portofino is doing, it is a huge community effort and I know together we can make a real difference.”

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Anyone wishing to donate a warm item should visit the restaurant at 2-4 Albert Street, call 01423 507700 or message the team on Facebook.