Research tells that the communal eating increases people’s social bonding and wellbeing. It is evidenced every Friday, when over 70 people eat hot Lunch together at a Community Cafe, started and hosted by St Luke’s Church, as part of its ‘Loving Leagrave’ initiative. It is held at Hockwell Ring Community Centre.
Since January last year, over 1600 people have attended the café.
The Vicar Revd Grace Sentamu-Baverstock shared, “In 2018, we started small by offering teas and coffees, but thanks to the help and support of many volunteers and funders, we are now buzzing with people & activities. We welcome people from diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds living in this area. We have babies, children, mums, young boys and girls, elderly and vulnerable – All are welcome.”
When asked why using Hockwell Ring Community Centre, Grace responded, “It is a neutral space in the heart of the local community. As a Church, we are trying to serve people where they are, than to expect people to come to us.”
Café Corodinator Sumitra Donaldson said, “Whatever we do, we do with dignity and grace. We make sure people’s dietary needs and preferences are taken into consideration, so that no one feels excluded”
“The recent grant from The Government’s Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund delivered by The National Lottery Community Fund has been helpful. We now have children’s art & craft activities, and have plans in the autumn to start the children’s cooking club too”.
Many people said they were lonely or depressed, but have found friendships at the café. Sumitra explained that 6 years ago she also suffered great illness, but she found many friends at this Café, which helped her recover. She then started volunteering and is currently one of the two Volunteer Coordinators.
She said, “The love and welcome I received, when I arrived here, is what I’m trying to give back to others. Seeing smiles on people’s faces brings joy to my soul and peace within.”
“Everyone fits in. Everyone gets on with one another. It’s love. We feel we are all one”,
This café is yet another model that captures and embodies a vision for Luton where all diverse cultures, ethnicities, and religions are welcomed, celebrated, and living harmoniously.
As part of the ‘Loving Leagrave’ initiative, St Luke’s Church runs a weekly Community Café at Hockwell Ring Community Centre. The Café Coordinators Sumitra & Annie (2nd & 3rd from left) are joined by the Chef and volunteers.