YMCA North Tyneside calls on local community to help their Community Meals reach all who need it this December
YMCA Community Meals Volunteers
A North East charity is increasing its number of Community Meals this month. Organised by YMCA North Tyneside, the meals provide an opportunity for people to come together, take some pressure off their household budgets, share a hot meal and feel a part of their local community.
Held at Café 1879 in North Shields, the meals are free and open to all with no criteria, judgement or expectations. People are welcome to come on their own, with families or friends, the message being to come and be supported by their community without worry of cost in a space which has been designed to be warm, inclusive and supportive.
Rachel Dyne, Head of Community at YMCA North Tyneside said: “Our Community Meals are about much more than just providing food, they offer warmth and a sense of belonging. The meals bring people together, help combat loneliness, create opportunities for conversation, and give people a welcoming space to connect with others.”
Two additional meals have been added to the usual first Wednesday of the month, to ensure more people can access the much needed support. As the temperature continues to drop and the cost of living rises, many households are facing extra pressure this festive season so the charity encourages all to come and join on the designated nights to get out the cold and have a warm meal.
YMCA Community Meals Volunteers
The first took place on Wednesday 10th December, with a host a full sit-down Christmas dinner. This has been supported by local partners Bailey Capital and Care and Connect, who are providing the funding and volunteering support.
On the following Wednesday 17th YMCA will host a Christmas Community Buffet which will also take place 4pm until 5:30pm in a more informal setting for the community to enjoy together. This has been supported by the Assisted Living Project.
The cold isn’t the only thing that the charity is trying to combat, as the festive period can be particularly lonely for some in our local communities. Rachel said: “For some, especially those who live alone, attending a Community Meal is the highlight of their week. With the support of our local community and businesses, we can continue to make sure these meals reach the people who need them most during what can be a very difficult and isolating time of year.”
YMCA Community Meals Volunteers
YMCA North Tyneside is appealing to people and businesses across the North East to help make their wish a reality this Christmas whether through volunteering, spreading the word or donations that can be done here. The YMCA will continue to host the Community Meals on a weekly basis into the colder months of 2026 to carry on providing warm welcoming space for people to come together throughout January to March.
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