Volunteers sought for free festive lunch for struggling Melton people
Volunteers are sought to help provide a festive meal in Melton Mowbray for homeless people and those struggling with the cost of living.
The free St John’s Lunch Club is held for around 30 guests every Thursday in the community hall adjacent to the Catholic church in Thorpe End.
It started up when St John’s Parish Hall opened five months ago and although there is a hardcore of volunteer support but some are unavailable over the Christmas holidays.
Organisers want to host lunches on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and they need a few more helpers on both days, from 10am to 1pm.
Mary Barber, one of the co-ordinators, said: “We are working on providing a three-course meal for 30 guests on Christmas Eve, which will be table service as long as we can put together a team of volunteers.
“If not, we will set up a buffet and may need to provide a cold meal.
“A number of our volunteers are away or busy with other commitments that day so we are looking for an extra couple of people to set up tables and chairs, take orders from guests, help manage the dishwasher, serve food and clean up afterwards.”
The lunch club has benefited from grants from Sainsbury’s and the Ragdale Hall Community Chest – a funding scheme organised by Ragdale Hall Spa and the Melton Times.
Volunteers have also provided homemade cakes and harvest festival donations have been received by Melton Mowbray Lions Club and St Francis Primary School.
“The numbers have increased since opening in May and we still have new guests every week who we have not met before as well as our regulars,” added Mary.
“The needs of our guests vary. Some are homeless or living in accommodation with no or limited cooking facility. Some are just dealing with cost of living challenges. Some come for the company.
“Our 12 volunteers work on a two-week rota basis with some coming each week and others joining us during school holidays when they are free
“The atmosphere is great. Feedback is that guests enjoy the food and the company.”
Email Mary at [email protected] if you would like to volunteer your services for the Christmas Eve or for regular lunches.