A Day of Community and Remembrance in Memory of Dominic Petruzzelli

Lifeshare is opening its doors, beyond its usual breakfast opening this Easter Sunday, to offer a day of good food, warmth, and community spirit for anyone in need.

On Sunday 20th April, the doors will open at 7am with Lifeshare’s famous volunteer-led breakfast and will run throughout the day until 3pm. At the heart of the day is a special Easter Lunch, a chance for everyone to come together and enjoy a comforting meal in good company.

This year’s Easter event is being held in loving memory of Dominic Petruzzelli, a regular guest at Lifeshare who sadly passed away recently. Dominic was not homeless, but he had faced tough times in his life and found real solace and friendship at Lifeshare and alongside the homeless community. He was a big personality, known for his kindness and the way he shared his experiences and advice with many other service users. Dominic’s warmth and humour lit up the room, and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

His sister-in-law, Debbie Petruzzelli, said: “It brings us so much comfort to know how loved Dominic was at Lifeshare. We are so proud that this Easter lunch is being held in his memory – he would have loved that.”

Lifeshare – the oldest charity in Manchester supporting homeless and vulnerable people – will have a team of volunteers on hand all day to provide not just food, but a friendly face and support for anyone who needs it. The Easter event is open to all, no questions asked and no booking is required. 

Event Details:
 📅 Date: Sunday 20th April 2025
 🕖 Time: 7am – 3pm
 📍 Location: Mosaic, Methodist Central Hall, 2 Dale Street, Manchester M1 1JW.

Jimmy Dunn, Lifeshare’s Breakfast Coordinator, said: “We know that holidays can be a tough time for many, so on top of our usual Weekend Breakfast service, we’ll stay open all day and create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and cared for. We encourage anyone facing homelessness or poverty of any kind to come down and meet some great people and benefit from good food, showers, free clothing and advice. 

“We will also remember Dominic – a guest of Lifeshare who really was an incredible person. Even though he faced his own struggles, Dominic always reached out and supported those who found themselves in difficult circumstances. He embodied everything Lifeshare is about – kindness, compassion and inclusivity. I personally will miss him, as do all our volunteers and other guests.”

Lifeshare’s Chair of Trustees, Matthew Johnson, said: “Lifeshare would also like to thank all our amazing volunteers and supporters who help make days like this possible. We’d encourage anyone looking for worthwhile volunteering opportunities to get in touch and sign up! 

“Equally, we can only survive from donations to support our work. If you’re looking for an alternative to chocolate themed Easter gifts, donations can be made at www.lifeshare.org.uk/donate  — every contribution helps us reach more people in need. This includes food donations, practical clothing to replenish our store and any treats for our guests.”