MELKSHAM Community Meals is returning to the Assembly Hall next month.
The service, which offers a place for people to meet and socialise, was forced to close last year due to the pandemic, during which the volunteer team were told that they would be unable to return to Spencer Sports & Social Club.
With restrictions lifted, Melksham Community Meals has been on the hunt for a new home – and with a helping hand from Melksham Town Council, it will return “gradually” at the Assembly Hall, with three Sunday lunches booked before the end of the year.
The search is still on for new premises for Wednesday and Friday sessions.
The organisation’s chair, Sue Mortimer, who is also a town councillor said, “When the pandemic struck in March 2020, forcing us to cancel our sell-out Mother’s Day Sunday lunch, nobody had any idea of the length of time we would be out of service.
Anyhow, nearly 18 months later, we are pleased to say we finally have some good news!
“Melksham Community Meals is ready to get up and running again and are opening gradually at the Assembly Hall, thanks to a grant from Melksham Town Council for rent-free use of the hall, once-a-month, for the next three months.
“This is a big help with our costs as we have to do a complete restock of items. Any stock we had at the start of Covid-19 was passed on to Melksham Food Bank – so it went to a good home and avoided becoming out of date!
“We will be reopening on the following days: Sunday 3rd October, Sunday 31st October, and Sunday 5th December for Sunday lunch 12pm – 2pm.
“We are excited to be able to see everyone again, for I know, from what people tell me, users, staff and volunteers alike, have all missed the meals and the social side of meeting up, just as much as mine and Elvy’s cooking!”
Bookings for Sunday 3rd October can be made by ringing or texting Sue Mortimer on 07719 935 883.
Sue says, “Please book early so we know how many to welcome back! The team can’t wait to see you all! We are still looking for new premises for Wednesday and Friday sessions. If we get enough people on Sundays, I am hopeful we can get back to a few more regular sessions in the Assembly Hall in the new year.”
If anyone can help with any ideas as regards to premises or would like to volunteer for Melksham Community Meals, contact Sue Mortimer on 07719 935 883.
