Nobody deserves to feel lonely at Christmas. If you're looking for someone to spend the big day with, or you want to help spread the festive cheer by volunteering, here's five community dinners being held in Hoodtown...
Vine Community Centre
Friday Food n Friends began back in November, offering residents in the local area a place to hang out, make new friends and enjoy a delectable home cooked meal. Aimed at those who have become socially isolated or with a lack of finances, they serve a three-course meal every Friday. Thanks to the help of UKFoodAid.org; Himmah.org and Annie’s Burger Shack, they are able to whip up a full Christmas spread, too. Contributions towards the cost of the event and spare decorations are very welcome; just drop them off to the centre. If you’re popping along on the big day, let ‘em know you’re coming here.
Christmas Day, 2pm
Bobbers Mill Road, NG7 5GZ
5th Mansfield Sea Scout Group
The scouts are giving up their hideout to make room for this community Christmas dinner. It has been organised alongside local hero Elaine Hallam, who wants to help anyone elderly or otherwise who live alone and want some company on Christmas day. As well as a turkey with all the trimmings, there’s gonna be a whole afternoon of entertainment to get everyone in the festive spirit. So far, Elaine only has four people attending her event, but has enough food and gifts for up to thirty. If you know of anyone who might like to go along, contact Elaine on 01623 651487, 07977414799 or elaine.hallam@icloud.com, so she can send them an official invitation.
Christmas Day, 11pm-5pm
Devon Dr, NG19
Self Love Hub
Mo Fayose is back at it again. Last year, the former student mental health nurse hosted a free Christmas dinner for 130 people in her attempt to combat festive loneliness, and this time she’s determined to make the day even more special. Mo will be serving up Breakfast from 8am-11am, before the real festivties begin with a full Christmas dinner from 12pm. She’s then organised a social gathering for the rest of the afternoon, so people can celebrate in the company of new friends. Free transport can be organised for anyone that would rely on public transport to get themsens there. To book your seat, email bookings@mofayose.com or call 07906811309.
Christmas Day 8am-7pm
Unit 1 Combo Park, Rear Of 6 Bulwell Lane, Basford, NG6 0BT
Salvation Army Church & Community Centre, Arnold
They are the army of helping hands, afterall. Arnold’s branch of the Salvation Army will be preparing a traditional Christmas lunch for anyone in the area who’s after a bit of company on the big day. Volunteers are still needed to help serve up the grub or transport people to the community hall, so if you’d like to attend or get involved, contact Tim Justice on 07506 811309 or nottingham.arnold@salvationarmy.org.uk.
Christmas Day, 10am onwards
High Street, NG5 7DQ
Emmanuel House
While the meal being served up at Emmanuel House will be for the benefit of the homeless and vulnerably housed only, they are still looking for volunteers to help serve up the food and entertain the guests. The centre will open from 10am. If you’d like to get involved, contact them on 0115 9507140 or email volunteering@emmanuelhouse.org.uk.
Christmas Day, 10am-2pm
53-61 Goosegate, NG1 1FE
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