Big-Hearted Volunteers Serve Free Meals Every Week at Community Venue
By Jill Dando News
St Paul’s Church in Weston-super-Mare in Somerset near Bristol has become a beacon of hope for the local community, providing free, freshly prepared hot meals every Thursday evening throughout the winter months.
The initiative, which began as a response to rising living costs and the growing need for support in the area, has quickly become a lifeline for many.
Volunteer Mel Bray, who helps organise the service, explains the motivation behind the effort: “We are passionate about supporting our community, and this is a very practical way that we can serve, particularly with the current challenges of increases in the cost of living. We not only serve food, but our hope is that we create community, give a little hope, and that people feel loved when they come in. A big thank you especially to Waitrose, Tesco, Asda, and North Somerset Council, who have all provided the finance.”
Each week, around 60 people gather at St Paul’s Church to enjoy a hot, nourishing meal.
Many of those who attend are struggling financially, and for some, it’s the first meal they’ve had in days.
The volunteers work tirelessly to prepare hearty dishes like spaghetti bolognese, casseroles, and warming soups, which are complemented by a comforting dessert to finish.
The free meal service runs every Thursday until the end of February, with doors opening at 5pm.
The church, located in the heart of Weston-super-Mare, is open to all, with no questions asked.
It’s become an essential part of the town’s support network, providing not only a meal but a sense of community for those who need it most.
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