Ben’s father had never been a regular support in Bens life. In fact, the only good memory Ben had of his father was the white guitar his mother told him that his father had bought for him one Christmas. Ben’s anchor in life was his mum. She was a thoughtful, kind, loving and intelligent woman. Ben remembers hearing the soft lisp in her voice as she would gently speak with him about their future. They were making the best of their lives.

Unfortunately, this all came to an abrupt end when Ben was 17. His mother passed away suddenly and Ben was made homeless. Grieving and with no hope for his future, Ben shuffled through the Luton streets trying to keep warm and fed from whatever he found.

That’s how Ben came to the CLF Soup Stall. There, he was able to have some warm nourishing soup, bread and fruit. It’s simple food with the opportunity to talk with someone who is caring and supporting.