A Hope-Filled Christmas at Hope Kitchen
As Christmas approaches, we wanted to share a story that’s close to our hearts. At Cooper8, we’re always thinking about the people who bring kitchens to life—chefs, volunteers, and teams working tirelessly to create memorable dining experiences. Understanding kitchen processes, menus, and the flow of a busy kitchen is a vital part of our design philosophy.
We couldn’t have gained better insight than through our connection with Hope Kitchen in Hastings, where our Senior Designer, Giorgia, spent four years as a volunteer. She quickly rose to managing the kitchen, overseeing operations, and cooking high-quality meals that brought joy and comfort to everyone involved.
In 2020, we had the privilege of giving back by redesigning and refurbishing Hope Kitchen’s facilities. But today, as Christmas approaches, we wanted to focus on the heartwarming tradition of their annual Christmas dinners—organised and cooked by Giorgia for over 50 guests each year she was there. Her experience offers a glimpse into how thoughtful spaces and a shared meal can create unforgettable moments.
Giorgia reflects:
“I had the pleasure of spending a few Christmas dinners at Hope Kitchen and even cooked them a couple of times. Cooking for 50 people was no small feat, but with a small team of volunteers and a brand-new kitchen, it was always a success. The hall was always transformed with care, the tables laid out in a communal style, decorated for the Christmas festivities.
The Bruderhof Community from Robertsbridge came to sing carols, filling the air with music, while guests gathered to enjoy a meal that felt truly special. The Bruderhof Community contributed so much to Hope Kitchen, often supplying the Christmas dinner and providing significant funding for the new kitchen. Even the mayor would join us, sitting alongside guests as we all shared in laughter, conversation, and even some fizzy juice.
One guest stands out in my memory—a man who loved to sit and do crosswords after meals. Armed with a magnifying glass, he enjoyed the simple companionship, whether we were solving puzzles or playing chess. These moments reminded me how much a welcoming space and good food can mean to someone.
Sadly, since the COVID pandemic, the lack of volunteers has meant the sit-down meals haven’t returned, however they still all receive a Christmas present, and for some this may be the only present they have in the year. But I’m determined to go back next year to recreate the magic of Christmas. Hopefully, this blog will encourage more volunteers—just a few hours a month can make a world of difference.”
Hope Kitchen is a lifeline for many in Hastings, supporting those facing homelessness, addiction, mental health struggles, and loneliness. If you’d like to join their efforts, visit Hope Kitchen’s website to learn more. Your time and care can help bring back the joy of shared meals and the magic of community connection.