Saaliha's Story

Saaliha volunteers in the Overgate kitchen
I first began volunteering for Overgate in 2018 for one simple reason: I wanted to contribute my time to a worthy cause and make a real difference in my community. Overgate was my first real experience in learning how to effectively work as part of a team and what it means to be a part of something much bigger than myself.  

I first began volunteering in the charity shop in Halifax, where I helped put out new stock and worked on the till. In 2019 I moved to the kitchen in the Hospice building in Elland, helping prepare meals for patients and their loved ones. My favourite part is always getting stuck in and helping make sure the food that is sent out is immaculate in the hopes of making someone’s day better.  

For anyone who is considering volunteering at Overgate my advice would be just to do it - I promise you won’t regret it! It may seem daunting at first, but after meeting all the lovely staff and other volunteers and working as part of the Overgate team you will fit right in. Nothing is comparable to giving your time for people who truly need it, and soon you will prefer a day at the hospice volunteering than going out! 

During my time as a volunteer, Overgate has given me an incredible sense of belonging and value that I will always cherish. It is the most amazing feeling in the world knowing I have helped someone less fortunate than me, even in a small way, and it has taught me an invaluable lesson about the importance of kindness. I would like to thank all the staff at Overgate for making me feel so welcome and a part of the Overgate family. 

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