'It was my most most memorable day at work': Boathouse 4 partners with The CRUMBS Project for fundraising event
A restaurant has collaborated with a charity for a unique fundraising event
Boathouse 4 Kitchen has joined forces with a ‘meaningful initiative’ to raise money for charity that supports adults with disabilities, neurodivergences, or mental health conditions.
The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard eatery partnered up with The CRUMBS Project on April 22, for a unique event where four of the project’s trainees worked in the restaurant, with 15 per cent of all sales generated on the day donated to the charity.
The Dorset-based charity was established in 1997 by the late Anne Gardner MBE who recognised the need for a structured programme of support for adults between 18 and 70 with disabilities, neurodivergences, mental health conditions, stabilised addictions, or acquired brain injuries.
The event saw 83 covers served throughout the day, raising £110 for the charity. As a first-of-its-kind charity initiative, funds were raised, while giving trainees the opportunity to step into a live hospitality environment, shadowing the Boathouse 4 Kitchen team both in the kitchen and front of house.
Daniella, trainee at The CRUMBS Project, said: "I enjoyed working at the Boathouse Kitchen. The tasks I did included: coating chicken in breadcrumbs, frying the fish, cooking the chips, and I made burgers with the chefs. The thing I enjoyed about the day was taking orders from the ticket machine. I've also learnt to use a different dishwasher than the one we use at CRUMBS."
The CRUMBS Project provides five training programmes including foundation, food production and service, housekeeping, administration, and digital skills, all of which are endorsed by the Institute of Hospitality.
Natalie Curtis, sales and events manager at Boathouse 4 Kitchen, said: “The CRUMBS Project charity event was one of my most memorable days I’ve had at work. The trainees were incredibly engaging, and it was a real pleasure getting to know each of them individually. I’m also really looking forward to visiting their headquarters in Bournemouth to support one of their own trainee-led events.
“It was a fantastic opportunity not only to support such a meaningful initiative, but also to work alongside individuals who are clearly passionate about building a future in hospitality. The collaboration created a positive and uplifting atmosphere throughout the day.”
Lana, trainee at The CRUMBS Project, added: "I learned how to welcome customers; being friendly, helpful, and serving them food. I watched how to do the barista machine, supported with writing down orders, and helped on the till. I enjoyed the day meeting new people and working together."