Lighting up the Season for Our Friends

Spreading Christmas Cheer at The People’s Kitchen

At The People’s Kitchen, the festive season is a time to bring hope, warmth, and connection to those most in need. This week, we hosted our annual Christmas party, lighting up the season for our Friends with food, music, and companionship.

Special guests Ray Laidlaw and Billy Mitchell, former members of the legendary North East band Lindisfarne, joined the celebration, performing live and helping turn on the Christmas lights. Their presence, alongside the music of our choir, created an uplifting atmosphere that brought smiles to many faces.

Every day of the year, The People’s Kitchen serves up to 250 meals for individuals facing homelessness, food insecurity, and hardship. More than just food, we strive to provide a welcoming space and emotional support. Trustee Maggie Pavlou shared, “We’re here 365 days a year for our friends, and we welcome anyone who comes through the door.”

All of this is made possible by the dedication of our volunteers—ordinary people giving their time to make an extraordinary difference. For over 35 years, we have been a lifeline for Newcastle’s most vulnerable, and as demand continues to grow, so does our commitment.

This year, our Feed a Friend for a Fiver campaign highlights how every donation can provide warmth and sustenance during the cold winter months. Together, we can ensure everyone has a reason to smile this Christmas.