Holland America Line’s Zaandam has donated a number of meals to the Southampton Veterans Drop-In Centre. The donation took place while the ship was docked at the Port of Southampton on 4 November.
The delivery of food worth around £30,000, was overseen by musician Rikki Valentine as an ambassador for the charity. Ex-Royal Airforce himself, the singer has worked closely with lead volunteers Tracy and Colin Gaynor at the Veterans Drop-In Centre since its opening in 2018, having previously donated proceeds from his music to the venue which also works to feed the homeless and support struggling families.
Lynn Narraway, UK/Ireland Managing Director for HAL said: ‘We are delighted to offer this donation to the Southampton Veterans Drop-In Centre, especially at a time where many may not feel comfortable with shopping for food in busier public spaces. HAL has always made a conscious effort to positively impact the communities of the destinations we cruise to, and this continues during our pause in operations. We are looking forward to welcoming guests back onto our ships in 2021’.
Valentine, previously lead singer of Black Couch and the BC Experiment, collaborated on a charitable project with Zaandam’s Executive Chef Willem Waltheer seven years ago, which is when his communication with HAL started. The two reconnected when it was confirmed that the ship would dock in Southampton to discuss where the meals could be donated locally.
Rikki added: ‘On behalf of the Southampton Veterans Drop-In Centre, we’d like to whole-heartedly thank Holland America Line for this generous donation, which will go to local armed forces veterans to maintain their health and well-being, and to local families in need. At a challenging time for all it’s great to see big brands showing community support in this way’.
Zaandam, a mid-sized ship that can host up to 1,432 guests, features interiors inspired by music, including signed guitars from iconic rockers such as Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones. A limited number of staff are currently on board keeping the ship safe and compliant with nautical and environmental regulations. Next year, the vessel will travel to Canada & New England, the Caribbean and Panama on itineraries ranging from 7-35 days.