Stowmarket United Reform Church hosts Christmas day lunch to combat loneliness

A popular Christmas meal is set to return which offers a chance for those experiencing loneliness to get together for a day of festivities.

Jam Community Pot will be hosting the Christmas day lunch at the United Reform Church in Ipswich Street, Stowmarket from 12pm to 4pm for the ninth time this year.

The free event offers a three course meal, games, bingo, raffle and other entertainment on Sunday, December 25.

Organiser Michelle Frost believes the meal is a great opportunity for people to come together at a time of year that many find difficult.

She said: "Our Christmas meal is open for those who are isolated, vulnerable or struggling with the cost-of-living.

“It’s just a place for people to go on one of the worst days of the year for a lot of people - especially if you’re alone.”

This is the first time the event has been held in the church since the Covid 19 pandemic and Michelle is looking forward to getting back in the hall.

Michelle got involved with the Christmas lunch service after she experienced a lonely Christmas day as her children went to their father’s house.

She said: “I was all by myself and it was just unbearable - and I thought there really should be somewhere for people to go.

“If we can offer that then that’s a small part we can do in making people’s Christmas days a lot easier.

“It’s just a really fun day and we’re really looking forward to it.”

To make the day even better, Michelle is looking for a generous taxi company or transport service that would be able to pick up and transport residents to and from the church.

If you could help Michelle, get in touch by calling 07810456512.