Welcome To Tracy's Street Kitchen
Who We Are and What We Do
Tracy's Street Kitchen was founded in October 2016 by Tracy and Andrew in response to the rising number of people experiencing street homelessness in Nottingham. What began as a simple act of kindness soon became a weekly lifeline. Every Friday evening, they arrived with two hot meal options — always including a vegetarian choice — along with desserts, sandwiches, crisps and hot drinks, all lovingly prepared from scratch by Tracy. Among the long standing favourites served to our community are her much loved Cowboy Pie and comforting Bread and Butter Pudding.
Just two months later, in December 2016, we hosted our first Christmas Day lunch: a full festive meal with all the trimmings and a goodie bag for every guest. Our first Easter event followed in 2017, offering another hearty meal, treats and, of course, an Easter Egg for each person who joined us. These special days are now cherished annual fixtures for our community.
When the pandemic struck in 2020, many of our street homeless community were temporarily placed in hotels or shared accommodation. Though their surroundings changed, their need for food and support remained. Tracy's Street Kitchen, alongside several like minded groups, stepped forward to ensure that no one was forgotten during this challenging time.
As a non funded, not for profit organisation, we rely entirely on the generosity of individuals and businesses who donate goods or financial support. Their kindness allows us to continue offering warmth, nourishment and dignity every single week. If you, your organisation or your business would like to support our work, we would be delighted to hear from you.
A little about Tracy and Andrew
At just 14, Tracy found herself living on the streets of Nottingham. Vulnerable and alone, she faced the harsh realities of rough sleeping — including violence, exploitation and daily uncertainty. It was during this time that she met Andrew. Each morning, he passed her on his way to work, and a simple gesture — a sandwich and a drink — gradually grew into a friendship that has lasted a lifetime.
With determination, courage and support, Tracy rebuilt her life. She re joined her community, yet never forgot the trauma she had endured or the people she met along the way.
Education became her next step forward. Tracy went on to study at Nottingham Trent University, gaining degrees in Sociology, Psychology and History, followed by a Masters in Literacy and Numeracy. These qualifications led her into teaching, where she specialised in supporting children with special educational needs. She also spent time teaching in Kenya, further strengthening her commitment to helping others.
Today, alongside running Tracy's Street Kitchen, Tracy is a Director at Emmanuel House and an active Rotarian — roles that reflect her dedication to compassion, community and social change.
Andrew’s career has been equally varied and colourful, spanning local radio, Nottingham’s bus authority and eventually his own chauffeur business. Although now retired, he remains firmly at the heart of the Kitchen’s behind the scenes operations, providing the steady support that helps keep everything running smoothly.
How You Can Help
We are fortunate to have a dedicated and compassionate volunteer team supporting our Friday evening service. Their commitment helps us provide consistency, dignity and a warm welcome to everyone we serve.
At present, our most urgent needs are donations of:
Toiletries
Sleeping bags
Food items
Financial contributions to help us purchase essential supplies
These donations make a direct and immediate difference to the people who rely on us each week.
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept clothing donations at this time.
Get In Touch
For more information about our organisation, please contact Tracy's Street Kitchen today.
Or visit our Contact page to find out about making a donation.
We are located outside Marks and Spencer on Albert Street every Friday evening 18.30-19.45, also we are out Easter Sunday and Christmas day 11.00-13.00 to ensure our extended family is not forgotten about.
Our office hours are Monday-Friday 10.00-17.00.
We are currently looking for around 6 volunteers to help on a couple of Friday evenings a month from 18.30 to around 19.45. If you are interested please call us.
For more information about our organisation or to offer your support, Contact Tracy's Street Kitchen today at or