Over the last few weeks, I had the pleasure of visiting one of our long-standing partner hubs – the Church of Christ in Darnall. It’s hard to believe it’s been four years since they first joined us, becoming one of the original hubs to offer Just Meals to their community.
Walking into the church, it’s immediately clear why this hub continues to thrive. The church is warm and welcoming, filled with chatter, the clink of mugs, and the unmistakable smell of a hot lunch being served. It’s more than just a place to pick up a meal. It’s a community in the truest sense.
Visitors can enjoy a cuppa, sit and chat with neighbours, and browse a freezer full of our delicious Just Meals. Whether people are popping in for a lunch break, looking for a quiet place to sit, or picking up food for the week ahead, there’s something for everyone.
Pictured: Gwen and Sue choosing their Just Meals, and George, Sue and Anne enjoying a cuppa and a chat.
While I was there, I met some of the incredible volunteers who help bring this space to life. Their warmth and dedication is at the heart of the hub. I also had the perfect timing to catch the Food Works driver arriving with a fresh delivery of Just Meals.
Pictured: Our delivery driver Brian dropping off the weekly meals.
The Church of Christ in Darnall have shared their own reflections on what being a Food Works hub has meant to them:
“Church of Christ in Darnall has been a Food Works Hub since 2021, opening up to the community for takeaway meals after the COVID-19 lockdown. Food Works is now a regular feature of the church’s coffee mornings and activities, offering an expanding selection of affordable Just Meals. The hub has grown to serve our regular and occasional visitors who rely on the service. The church values its partnership with Food Works, helping reduce food waste and making connections with the local community. We look forward to our continued growth and development.”
Sue Griffiths, Church Warden
Pictured: June, Sue and Margaret. Three of the fantastic volunteers at the church.
And from the people who use the hub regularly:
“The Food Works Hub at Church of Christ in Darnall is a really great resource. We use it for getting cheap meals to take to work that are convenient, and using up what would otherwise end up in landfill. The volunteers at CofC are always welcoming and friendly, and we are very grateful for them.”
D & N
“I find Food Works at church important because the church is local and it’s easy to get there. The meals are very good. I’m happy to support reducing food waste and I think it’s good that my church is involved in this.”
SV
“I have been a regular customer to Church of Christ since the very beginning of them supplying Food Works meals. I keep coming back for the vegan and veggie meals. It is near to my home and I always receive a friendly welcome. I also collect a patron box from the Handsworth market. I am on a limited budget so appreciate the affordability. Food Works has broadened my food choices and ideas for preparing my own meals. I support Food Works’ policy on using surplus food. I prefer to not spend money on ‘money grabbing supermarkets’!”
Jules
It’s clear that this hub isn’t just serving food. It’s offering choice, community, and a more sustainable way of living.
If you’re in the area, stop by and see it for yourself.
Church of Christ Darnall,
Station Road,
Darnall,
Sheffield
S9 4JT
And if you’re part of a community group or organisation thinking about becoming a hub, the Church of Christ in Darnall is a shining example of what’s possible when great people come together around good food and shared values. Get in touch to see how you can get involved too.
Big thank you to Sue for welcoming me to the church and introducing me to her fellow volunteers and community.
By Sarah Baird
