Manna Project event thanks its helpers

A CARNOUSTIE community project has toasted supporters of its successful weekly cafe – with tea and cakes.

The Manna Project is based in the town’s Baptist Church opposite Carnoustie War Memorial.

It’s a two-part operation, working to tackle food poverty and providing free light lunches once a week through the Manna cafe.

The backing of local businesses has been vital, so the volunteer team showed their gratitude with an afternoon tea for supporters.

Volunteer Holly Turner said: “We aim to alleviate food poverty and support those experiencing hardship, loneliness and social isolation.

“We began in February 2022 by sourcing fresh and tinned food and other non-perishable items from our partners.

“Working in collaboration with others, including Upper Dysart Farm near Montrose and the local Co-op supermarket, we are able to provide fresh vegetables, tinned and dried food and other essential provisions to the local community.

“We started by working with the community groups who use the church premises and are now also open every Thursday from 10am to noon at the Baptist Church, when we welcome anyone from the community who would like to make use of these provisions.”

The group has already forged strong links with both the public and private sector.

Holly added: “The Manna Cafe is open on Wednesdays between noon and 2pm in the back hall at the Baptist Church.

“Here, we aim to provide a warm, accessible space where people can gather, enjoy company and a light lunch. This is free of charge, but donations, which help to keep the cafe going, are welcomed.

“To build confidence in the standard of arrangements for the provision of food, we have registered with Angus Council as a food business.”

Supporters were invited along to the thankyou event to meet the volunteer team.