GRANTS have allowed a warm space in the Vale to extend its opening time as the co-ordinator has lamented that people in the region are having to choose between heating their homes, or buying food.

Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale have launched their Warm Welcome Lunch at the Wellbeing Centre on Holton Road, Barry.

With generous grants from National Grid Community Fund and the Vale Council, co-ordinator Nicci Jones and the team of volunteers will be able to open the space longer, serving soup, a roll and a hot drink free of charge for up to 30 people a day, Monday to Friday between midday and 2pm until the end of March.

“We are delighted to have this opportunity to offer something to the older people in our community who like many others are suffering from the cost-of-living crisis,” said Ms Jones.

“Increasing costs of fuel and food often mean that people are left with difficult choices as to whether to heat their home or buy food.”

Maureen was the first customer to take up the offer and she said it was a great place to come.

“First off it's nice and warm, and secondly if you haven’t much money the soup and bread with a cup of tea is lovely,” said Maureen.

Barry And District News:

First customer Maureen, pictured, said it was a great place to come

Ms Jones added she hopes every little will help people through the long winter months.

“We hope this will go a small way to help during these difficult times,” said Nicci.

“There will be a warm welcome for everyone and we know that those that come along will soon make new friends and may be even meet some old ones”.

Many community venues have opened up their doors and made their space available to create warm safe places where people can go to keep warm, socialise and make new friends during January to April.

To find out more about the Warm Welcome Lunch please contact Nicci on 01446 732 385 or to find out about warm spaces in your area please visit Find a Warm Welcome Space Today.