Your Harrogate Radio

4:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Take That

You’re A Superstar

Listen Live

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.

More from Local News

Harrogate Spring Water 'disappointed' as councillors refuse controversial expansion

Plans to expand the Harrogate Spring Water site in Harrogate have been refused by councillors, following strong local opposition and a lengthy planning process.
Police search for wanted Harrogate man

Police are searching for a man from Harrogate who has been recalled to prison.
New additions announced for return of Everything Electric North

Visitors to Everything Electric NORTH in Harrogate can look forward to two exciting and exclusive live experiences at this year’s event.
Police appeal following crash between Harrogate and Skipton

Police are appealing for information following a collision on the A59 between Harrogate and Skipton.
Date revealed for return of Knaresborough's Party in the Castle

The date has been confirmed for the return of one of Knaresborough's most popular summer events.
Ripon's Portly Pig named pub of the year

Ripon's Portly Pig has been named Harrogate & Ripon CAMRA Pub of the Year 2026.
GALLERY: Cherry blossom season begins in Harrogate

Cherry blossom season has arrived in Harrogate, with the town's iconic pink-lined avenues returning in full bloom.
Runners invited to take on scenic Nidderdale 10k race

Runners from across Yorkshire and beyond are set to take part in the Run Nidderdale 10K - a trail race through the stunning landscape of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Ripon Grammar School receives 'glowing' report from school's guide

Ripon Grammar School has been praised by a prestigious national schools' guide.
Harrogate floral shop window competition returns

Entries have opened for the Floral Shop Window Competition, inviting businesses across Harrogate town centre to showcase creative floral displays.
Dames urge councillors to stop bottled water expansion into community woodland

Two Dames of the Realm have urged councillors not to allow a bottled water company to expand its factory into an area of community woodland.
Fears over fly-tipping as council changes waste recycling centre rules

North Yorkshire Council has received a flood of critical comments and queries in response to a new system requiring residents to register to use waste recycling centres.
Ofsted full of praise for Harrogate High School after recent inspection

Harrogate High School has been praised by Ofsted following its latest inspection, with inspectors highlighting clear progress across the school.
Schemes in Harrogate and Ripon receive grants from Mayor's £2.4million High Street Fund

Four schemes in Harrogate and Ripon have secured funding from the final round of Mayor David Skaith's £2.4 million Vibrant and Sustainable High Street Fund.
Council facing fresh criticism of planning decisions over services near Boroughbridge

North Yorkshire Council is facing a fresh allegation of unlawful decision-making over plans for a motorway service area (MSA) near Boroughbridge.
Record breaking year for families receiving first choice primary schools

This year has seen the highest number of first-choice offers on record.
Four-man assault on Harrogate road leaves victim with head injury

Police are appealing for information about an assault that occurred on Fairfax Avenue in Harrogate.
Harrogate care home hits jackpot with Casino Royale fundraiser

A Harrogate care provider's unique casino fundraising event has raised £2,400 for the charity.
Coppice Valley Primary School celebrates praise from Ofsted

Coppice Valley Primary School in Harrogate has been praised by Ofsted inspectors for its highly inclusive culture and high-quality provision for pupils.
Shortlist revealed for Harrogate Hospitality and Tourism Awards

The final shortlist across twelve categories has been revealed ahead of the Harrogate Hospitality & Tourism Awards.