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Free packed lunches at Starbeck café feed families in need

Friday, 20 February 2026 09:26

The Packed Lunch Project returned to support families in need.

Nearly 100 people received free packed lunches at a Starbeck café during the half-term break.

The latest community effort at the Joyful Brew in Starbeck saw 96 people receive packed lunches, as families gathered at the café before heading off on days out.

Organiser Sarah Khanye said the venue was “a hive of activity, friends and community” as parents and children collected their lunches and made plans for “exciting adventures”.

She said:

“We had a great time and will be doing it again next half term - so keep your eyes peeled for the sign up!”

The initiative was brought back to provide support for local families during the school holidays.

The project aims to ease pressure on household budgets while creating opportunities for families to connect.

The event was hosted at Joyful Brew, which has become a regular hub for community-focused activities in the area.

Looking ahead, organisers are preparing for their next event - a community clothes swap on 6 March.

The evening gathering will give residents the opportunity to donate clothes they no longer wear in advance, with items arranged “like a shop” for people to browse and take home free of charge.

Described by Sarah as a chance to pick up “a whole new outfit for nothing”, the concept follows a “swaps for swaps” approach, encouraging residents to share resources and reduce waste.

Both initiatives form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community ties in Starbeck and the wider Harrogate area.

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