Church to help those in need

HINCKLEY’S Salvation Army church and community centre will host weekly community kitchen drop-ins to support local people who are in need this winter.

Volunteers at the centre will set up the facility to provide those in need with a hot meal, access to a shower, clean clothes, haircuts and foot care on Wednesday evenings throughout the cold months.

Church leader, Major Carol Evans, said: “Over the past year we have become increasingly concerned by the number of people needing our help because they are homeless or cannot afford to buy enough food.

“The Salvation Army has always felt called to put Christian faith into action by serving others, so we felt we had to do something.

“We held a meeting to see if there was enough interest in volunteering for this kind of service and 37 people came, including members of our own Salvation Army church, other local churches and individuals keen to offer this kind of service. “The response was truly amazing.” Each week a team of 10 volunteers will serve the guests, playing the roles of receptionists and kitchen staff while being a friendly face available to simply chat and listen to guests.

Organisers hope that the project will continue until March 2019 when a review will take place.

“While we are blessed with enough volunteers to fill our rota at present, if anyone is interested in offering support then I would encourage them to get in touch,” added Major Carol Evans.

“We need warm second-hand clothing and trainers as well as new socks, underwear, sleeping bags, toiletries and large towels. Donations of money to purchase food for the meals would also be appreciated.

“We are hoping our guests will find a warm and welcoming space to enjoy friendly conversation and receive practical support and advice.”

The first kitchen is expected to open on Wednesday November 7.

Donations can be handed in to The Salvation Army in Lancaster Road, Hinckley on Monday, Tuesday, Friday or Saturday mornings between 10am and 12 noon.

For more information you can email Carol at carol.evans@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 01455 251008.