Soup for the Soul

A new opportunity for people in the community of Kidsgrove to enjoy free soup and a natter has launched at The Salvation Army.

Kidsgrove Salvation Army Church, supported by its local Tesco supermarket who are providing the food for the meal, are launching the weekly lunch in a bid to tackle loneliness and isolation particularly among older people in the town.

The lunch, known as Soup for the Soul, will take place every Monday between 1pm and 2pm and in its first week attracted 40 people. Those who visit Soup for the Soul are then able to attend the CAMEO club (Come and Meet Each Other) which runs from 2pm and 3pm, and is another opportunity for people to make new friends and see old ones with a range of activities on offer each week – from craft activities to inspiring speakers.

The Salvation Army have also been visiting older people living in Aspire sheltered accommodation and care homes in the town including running a craft club.

Captain Susan Stubbings, who along with her husband Tomothy is the church leader at Kidsgrove Salvation Army, said: “The lunch is for anybody and everybody. We are doing this so that people can have an afternoon out at very little cost. The Salvation Army is a Church and charity dedicated to caring for people who are vulnerable or in need in every community. Some people in our community are lonely, and we wanted to make sure we were able to offer them a warm and friendly welcome, a listening ear and practical help.

On Mondays people in need of emergency food provisions will also be to collect a food parcel. And The Salvation Army will also be able to refer them to the town centre food bank if they need access on another week day.