Withernsea’s Gateway Community Hub has successfully relaunched its Community Care Hub in an event that coincided with the official opening of its Community Kitchen.
After undergoing a revamp, the Hub was reopened by town mayor Felicity Walmsley on March 7.
The Hub officially opened on March 7, 2020, just two weeks before the first Covid-19 lockdown. Practically overnight, the Hub turned into an emergency response centre, offering food parcels, welfare checks on elderly and vulnerable people, and food and prescription pickups. They also helped source white goods for families and people in need.
Once restrictions eased, they welcomed the community back into its premises in Queen Street, where they could operate an open-door policy and provide a safe, relaxing environment for people to have a hot drink and a chat.
Thanks to funding from Bettys & Taylors, they were able to add a fully fitted community kitchen. Once a storeroom, the kitchen is now a place for people to learn how to cook fun and healthy meals. The aim is to reduce the effects of poverty, including poor diet and associated health issues, while at the same time reducing loneliness and social isolation.
A spokesman said: “We would like to thank everyone that has helped, donated items, or volunteered at the Hub over the past two years. All your help and support is extremely appreciated and without you the Hub wouldn’t run as efficiently as it does.
“If anyone would like to volunteer, donate items, or has any questions about the Hub, they can contact Melissa Hayton on 07740 291147 or pop into the hub at 104 Queen Street, Withernsea, where you will be more than welcome.”
Cllr Felicity Walmsley said: “Over the past few years, I have seen how many people come into this place for solace and friendship. We are still recovering from Covid, and there are still people out there who are frightened of it. Then you’ve got all the bills going up, and on top of that we have got the Ukraine situation.
“For people who are stuck at home and vulnerable, all these things pile up. So, if they can come out to a place like this where they can meet people while learning to cook lovely things to take home, they are safe here. I wish the Community Hub all the luck.”
For groups wishing to use the kitchen, contact Annette Jarvis 07570 058817, or for further information contact Tim Jarvis on 07780 667414.
