As the cost of living continues to rise and Christmas approaches, one Weymouth business owner has quietly stepped in to make sure no one in the community goes without.
Sophie Gardiner, licensee and owner of Hardy’s Hophouse, shared a simple message on her personal and business Facebook pages earlier this month after seeing a post appear on her own news feed. The message encouraged anyone struggling with food or basic necessities to reach out privately, offering discreet help with no judgement and no publicity.
“Please don’t let you or your kids go to sleep on an empty stomach. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to send me a private message. I will do anything I can to help.”
Since posting the message, Sophie has already helped three people through ASDA e-gift vouchers, ensuring families could buy exactly what they needed during a particularly difficult time of year. She says she’s continuing to offer support right up to Christmas.
“Nobody deserves to be worried or struggle at Christmas,” Sophie said. “It’s a time for happiness and enjoyment. Sometimes people just need to know someone is there and willing to help.”
The support has been offered quietly and respectfully, with Sophie stressing that dignity and privacy are paramount.
“It may simply be a case of dropping off a food parcel and leaving,” she explained. “No one has to know, and where others are concerned, it never happened.”
While this year’s gesture has been more visible, Sophie has long supported local causes. Last Christmas, Hardy’s Hophouse donated just shy of £2,000 to Weymouth Boxing Club, a key community hub supporting children, teenagers and adults through sport, discipline and positive mentorship.
“I try to identify causes within the community each year,” Sophie said. “This year, I think I’ve just been more public about it — but the motivation has always been the same.”
At a time when many are struggling behind closed doors, Hardy’s Hophouse is proving that small acts of kindness — offered without expectation or recognition — can make a huge difference.
Anyone in need of support is encouraged to reach out privately, knowing they’ll be met with compassion, discretion and understanding.
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