Every Wednesday from 6:00 pm until around 8:00–8:30 pm, people gather at the base of the Bolton Community Kitchen, located at the Bolton Rugby Union Club on Avenue Street. The volunteers warmly open their doors to individuals from all walks of life. This includes people experiencing homelessness, elderly individuals facing loneliness,
and those struggling with addiction or mental health challenges that make social interaction difficult.
More Than Just A Meal
Regular attendees create long lasting relationships with the volunteers and have conversations with them.
Franchesca Leece, a volunteer at the Bolton Community Kitchen, says:
“I get great satisfaction, and it is good fun because it is just like meeting up with friends.”
Food, Comfort, Connection
Guests enjoy hot, nutritious meals alongside a welcoming and social atmosphere. Conversations are in full swing as people sit together, and many appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a two- or three-course homemade meal, complete with drinks and a sweet treat at the end of the evening.
An array of drinks are available, including hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and cordial.
A Unique And Inclusive Space
Unlike many other soup kitchens in and around Bolton, this community kitchen provides a space where guests can sit down and eat. This unique feature creates a warm, safe, and friendly environment where people can relax and connect with others. Meals are prepared using fresh vegetables harvested from the kitchen’s own allotment. A vegetarian option is always available, ensuring the service is inclusive and accessible for all people given that it is a walk-in space.
Powered by Donations and Dedication
The menu can vary depending on the weekly budget, with each session costing between £120 and £150 to cater for approximately 80 people. Most of the food is donated by local businesses such as Carrs Pasties, Park Cakes, and Warburtons, which have left over food, as well as generous contributions from local residents.
Franchesca Leece, a volunteer, also supports fundraising efforts by selling handmade gonks and contributing proceeds to the Bolton Community Kitchen’s JustGiving page. She regularly updates the organisation’s Facebook page to spread awareness about this wonderful charity.
Community Spirit Beyond the Kitchen
Volunteers go above and beyond to support the initiative. For example, a group of volunteers completed the Three Yorkshire Peaks challenge, where they managed to raise £400 for the charity.
During the Christmas period, the Bolton Community Kitchen hosts a Christmas party where guests are treated to a full Christmas dinner. This year, a magician has even volunteered his time to entertain attendees, adding a special touch to the celebration.
By Maryam Sirajudin