Bee Mission | Charity of the Year: Meet Kim

Bee Mission is a Community Interest Company (CIC) dedicated to helping bees thrive across the south of England while improving the lives of people experiencing homelessness in Bournemouth. As Bh2's Charity of the Year, the organisation is built on the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to rebuild and flourish.

Behind Bee Mission are countless inspiring stories, and Kim's is one of the most remarkable. Having overcome addiction, homelessness and family separation, she went from receiving support to becoming a key part of a mission that now helps others find hope, purpose and a fresh start.

Kim’s challenges began in 2017, eventually leading her into a life she never imagined for herself. After the loss of her daughter to the care of her parents and the spiral of a high-stakes addiction, Kim found herself living on the streets of Bournemouth. For nearly two years, she endured the harsh reality of sleeping under piers and in shop doorways, battling physical agony and the constant cycle of withdrawal.

The turning point came through a chance encounter with Chris Bialan and Amy Foster, who offered more than just temporary relief. What started with a simple suitcase and a hot meal evolved into a lifeline. Through their support, Kim was moved from a hotel into a stable home, providing her with the foundation needed to finally address her addiction.

It was during this time that Kim discovered a new sense of purpose. While living in a supported house, she began helping Amy cook and deliver meals to those still living on the streets.

Kim became an integral part of the early days of Bee Mission. Immersing herself in research and attending weekly strategy meetings, she transitioned from someone receiving help to someone actively helping to build a mission of hope. Her involvement with Bee Mission provided the structure and goal-oriented focus she needed to reclaim her independence.

Today, Kim’s life looks remarkably different. After making the difficult but necessary decision to distance herself from the toxic patterns of her past, she returned to her family. Kim has now been reunited with her daughter and is proudly celebrating six years of sobriety.