Homelessness is one of the most visible yet misunderstood challenges of our time. But in the heart of Scotland, a remarkable movement is rewriting that story — one meal, one job, and one home at a time. Since its founding in 2012, Social Bite has become a symbol of hope and transformation in the fight against homelessness, proving that compassion combined with action can change lives and communities forever.
It all began with a small sandwich shop on Rose Street in Edinburgh, founded by Josh Littlejohn and Alice Thompson — two individuals with a vision far greater than business as usual. What started as a simple social enterprise that donated all profits to good causes soon evolved into a movement that inspired thousands.
In just six years, Social Bite grew into a thriving network of sandwich shops and a food delivery service across Scotland — employing over 70 people, all paid a real living wage. As homeless individuals began frequenting their cafés, drawn by kindness and free meals, the founders saw an even deeper calling: not only to feed those in need but to empower them with purpose and opportunity.
Recognizing the complexity of homelessness, Social Bite raised its ambitions beyond charity to systemic change. They commissioned Heriot-Watt University to develop a detailed framework for eradicating homelessness in Scotland’s four largest cities. This marked a turning point — from feeding the homeless to ending homelessness altogether.
Through ground-breaking partnerships, awareness campaigns, and community engagement, Social Bite transformed the national conversation around homelessness — shining a light on both the human stories and the collective responsibility to act.
Since its inception, Social Bite’s impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. Their initiatives have inspired generosity, compassion, and national action on an unprecedented scale.
Through its Sleep in the Park campaigns, Social Bite has raised millions of pounds, bringing together tens of thousands of people who chose to sleep outside for one night in solidarity with the homeless. These events not only generated vital funds but also awakened widespread understanding and empathy across Scotland and beyond.
Social Bite now provides 140,000 items of healthy free food every year to individuals in need. Beyond immediate aid, they offer employment opportunities and training programmes that help people rebuild their confidence and reintegrate into society — breaking the cycle of homelessness through empowerment, not dependency.
Their Social Supper events welcome around 400 vulnerable individuals each week, offering not just meals but connection, care, and access to further opportunities. At Vesta Restaurant & Bar, a top-tier dining experience doubles as a social mission — providing sit-down meals for people suffering homelessness and food poverty while offering training and employment for supported workers.
In 2018, Social Bite brought another visionary idea to life with the opening of the Social Bite Village in Edinburgh — a vibrant, supportive community offering transitional homes for individuals seeking stability. They also channel significant funding into Housing First Scotland, a programme providing permanent housing solutions for those experiencing chronic homelessness.
The true success of Social Bite lies in the lives transformed — individuals who have found work, regained dignity, and rediscovered hope through a movement that believes no one should be left behind.
Social Bite stands as a living example that business can be a force for good, and that every act of kindness can spark lasting change. From a single sandwich shop to a nationwide force for transformation, Social Bite continues to challenge the status quo — proving that when society comes together, ending homelessness is not just a dream; it’s a destination.
