A number of churches across the Isle of Wight have thrown open their doors to help those struggling financially this winter, offering food, company and warmth to those affected by the rising cost of living.
Families struggling with energy bills and people who live on their own can pop into their local church. They can stay warm, be given something to eat and be given some practical support.
Christ Church in Sandown is working with Sandown Town Council to provide a warm space for locals between 11:00-15:00 on Mondays during the winter months. The church has opened weekly from 31st October, with volunteers providing support and hot soup. Around a dozen people come each week.
The vicar, the Rev Mark Williams, said:
“We recognise the rise in the cost of living, and the pressures on families and individuals, and are grateful for the support of the town council to provide a warm space for those that need it.”
Among other island churches offering warm hubs are St Mary’s, Carisbrooke and Newport Minster. St Mary’s church hall is open from 10:00-12oon on Mondays and Wednesdays, and Newport Parish Centre opens from 10:00-12noon on Fridays. Free refreshments are available at both venues.
St John’s Church in Ryde is offering a welcoming warm space each Thursday from 14:00-17:00. Worshippers there can provide hot soup and rolls, hot drinks, activities for children and adults, and information about local organisations.
Other Warm Spaces include Sandown Methodist Church, Lake Methodist Church, Brading Methodist Church, Revive Newport, Ryde Library and St Faith’s Church in Cowes.
A national list of churches, libraries and community centres that are open as ‘warm spaces’ can be found at www.warmwelcome.uk.
