When County Hall began serving soup free of charge from the former canteen earlier this year, the volunteers never anticipated that the take-up would be so strong.
But since the first bowls were distributed to visitors back in January, no fewer than 800 portions have now been served. And the nutritious meals have been enjoyed by a wide cross-section of the community including young families, couples on dates, toddlers in prams, single people, octogenarians and members of the council staff.
Last night (Thursday), the soup kitchen staged its final event of the season.
“The work that the volunteers and council staff have carried out over these last four months has been truly amazing,” commented county councillor Thomas Baden Tudor.
“The meals have been prepared as a result of the generous donations from council suppliers and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff who were available to offer information and signpost people to the help that may be available to help tackle the cost of living issues as well as wellbeing and mental health support.
“Their efforts of these ast four months are really appreciated.”
The pop-up soup initiative has been held every Thursday evening between 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Volunteers from the council’s catering team have been supported by sponsorship from suppliers and cost of living funds to produce a wide range of healthy soups, as well as hot dogs and burgers for special family events in the school holidays.
The food has been prepared by a team comprising Sandra Gardner, Emma Williams, Sian Davies, Karl Richards-Downes and Leanne McSparron who were also on hand each week to serve , along with other council staff and volunteers.
“It has been fantastic to welcome so many people, young and old, to the canteen and it’s been a real example of our inter-generational community,” commented Cllr Guy Woodham, the cabinet member for education and the Welsh language.
“We’ve had toddlers in prams, families, couples on date nights, single adults, young people and octogenarians, including members of staff and the public.”
