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Starbeck café brings back free packed lunch scheme for people in need

Monday, 9 February 2026 08:30

Sarah Khanye (right), manager of the Joyful Brew in Starbeck, is spearheading the Packed Lunch Project.

A Starbeck café is set to relaunch a free packed lunch scheme during the school holidays to support people in the local community.

The Joyful Brew, formerly known as The Living Room, will run its Packed Lunch Project on Thursday 19th February between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

The initiative offers free packed lunches to anyone who needs one and does not require a referral.

The café is based at the rear of Starbeck Methodist Church, at 93b High Street.

Organisers have asked people planning to collect a packed lunch to sign up in advance via an online form so volunteers can prepare the right amount of food.

The scheme is free to access and open to all.

Sarah Khanye, Manager at The Joyful Brew, said:

“We know the holidays can be a busy and expensive time, so The Joyful Brew is here to help.

“We’re opening our doors to all local students, parents, and staff for our free Packed Lunch Project!”

A food bank also operates from the same building on Thursday mornings during the same hours.

But unlike the packed lunch scheme, the food bank requires a referral, which can be obtained from GP surgeries, schools and organisations such as Citizens Advice.

Sarah added:

“If you would like to or can support this project in any way we are looking for some donations of crisps, sweet treats and small bottles of juice or water, like a Fruit Shoot/smoothie or Capri-sun) or if you would prefer a monetary donation we would be massively grateful.”

The Joyful Brew is staffed entirely by volunteers, offering opportunities for community involvement and connection.

Its normal opening hours are Tuesday from 9am to 4pm, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 3pm, and Friday from 9am to 2pm.

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