Buckie sheltered housing residents enjoy a different kind of community lunch
SHELTERED housing residents in Buckie have enjoyed a Community Lunch Cerry Out in their homes.
It’s allowed those living in Burnside and Hanover sheltered housing to benefit from the hospitality of a community meal, without the higher risks of socialising during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Monthly community lunches were introduced by Buckie Central East locality plan group in November 2019, in the Fisherman’s Hall. However given the current restrictions, these have been unable to be held for several months, so the group was keen to get them back up and running to support members of the community.
Susan Chalmers, who is a member of the locality plan group, has been involved since the start, and says the calendar of events - including the lunches - is really valuable to local residents.
“Set up in partnership with Moray Food Plus, our Buckie community lunches have been popular events for folk wanting a blether whilst enjoying some tasty food. There’s no set charge but those who can afford to are able to make a donation.
“Every event has had something extra going on, from Christmas Carols by the children from Lady Cathcart Nursery, to supermarket own brand taste tests, a consultation on the Food Growing Strategy and friendly chats with experts on topics like mental wellbeing, health improvement and maximising your income.
“The events are run by volunteers and new helpers are always welcome. It’s a great opportunity to use your kitchen skills, or gain some experience serving customers or to get your daily workout moving tables and chairs – and maybe make some new friends along the way.”
Moray Council’s Community Support Officer for the Buckie area, Tracey Rae, said yesterday’s event was a success.
“This project has been possible because of the great partnership working with Moray Food Plus and the support of Moray Wellbeing Hub, Buckie Area Form and Buckie and District Community Council.
“It’s uplifting to see the positive impact of these community lunches, so the idea to bring it to the residents in sheltered housing complexes has been very welcomed. Many of these residents have been shielding for months now and, although we can’t eat together yet, we hope to soon to reconnect the community face-to-face again soon – we’re all looking forward to that day!”