“I first found out about Feeding Coventry through family. I’d moved from up north after being given emergency accommodation. I was feeling very deflated and was living in temporary accommodation.

I first visited about a year ago. I needed a safe place to go. Since coming to Feeding Coventry, I have always been made to feel welcome by Jeanette and the team. Every member of staff there will always be on hand to help me, and provide me with not only a hot meal, but a warm cuppa and a warm atmosphere. Nothing is every too much trouble for them.

Without the support and welcome at Feeding Coventry, I do believe I would no longer be here.”

“When I first came to Feeding Coventry, I was lost and all alone. I’d found out about Feeding Coventry though a friend after hearing how they support many people. It was September 2024. I was living in fear and anxiety due to my lack of settled status.

 

I accessed the social supermarket, advocacy and support service and joined the garden group. I have also joined the art workshops at the centre. Coming to the art classes has help me increase in confidence, get more focussed, make more friends, have more laughs than before and learn new skills.

My experience with Feeding Coventry has improved my confidence in humanity, in terms of helping one another. Coming here gives me mental stability. I am always happy to be here because all I have received from everyone is love and free gifts.
 

Feeding Coventry is a place where good and positive people gather together to dine and be cared for by the workers with respect. I would like more people to know about the services at Feeding Coventry as the help people can get is amazingly outstanding.”

“I have had a difficult time over the past two years caring for my elderly parents. Sadly, I lost my mum in November (2024) and, as well as grieving for her, I am having to care still for my dad – aged 92.

 

My friend told me about Feeding Coventry. I first visited in January 2025. I needed some time to myself – some “down time” – so I thought I would try the card-making class.

I was a bit anxious about coming at first, but I soon settled into it. Everyone was so friendly. I am thoroughly enjoying the class. It relaxes me. I love mixing with the other students. It’s very calming and I go off into my own world.

Karen is so helpful and kind. Nothing is too much trouble. She explains instructions really well.
I enjoy seeing the cards when they are finished and feel: ‘wow, I made that!’.

 

It helps my mental health because I’m not thinking about my problems. I’m calm, talking to others, relaxed and I have a card to take away. Lunch is available too – so kind.

 

10 / 10”

“I first visited the centre in 2023. I found out about Feeding Coventry through my friend.

I needed help with my benefits and housing and was referred to Coventry Law centre for a PIP appeal. They were very helpful.

I was very pleased with the help I received – especially Jeanette, because she always made time to help me.”

“Before coming to Feeding Coventry, I’d temporarily lost my memory due to an accident at work. I’d lost my job as I was having seizures at work. My relationship had broken down and I couldn’t see my children. I’m waiting for the final court hearing. I’d made several suicide attempts and I’d gotten into debt.

I found out about Feeding Coventry through the Coventry City Council website as I was looking for support. I was in a very bad situation financially and emotionally and it was during the Covid pandemic. The council referred me to Feeding Coventry through the Household Support programme.

At first, I only came to Feeding Coventry to pick up food. Over time though, I started making friends and staying to read. I found a quite haven. I received emotional support and help with medical and legal matters, financial help and debt relief. I was referred to Coventry Magistrates Court, Christians Against Poverty and Coventry Clothing.
 

I later found out that the charity needed someone to take care of the maintenance of the building. I started working and after a few months, I was offered a contract. I also joined the art classes. I came to my first craft class after being encouraged by a member of staff. I had no expectations and maybe this is why I liked it so much. I started wanting more and more. I didn’t even know I had skills such as drawing or painting. There’s no pressure. No one judges you. You feel accepted, you relax and your mind rests.

I first came to Feeding Coventry as an unemployed self-isolated person. Now I have a job, friends and I can plan again for the future. It’s like being reborn. I’m in the centre at least four days a week.

Keep doing what you’re doing. I will never repay this debt [to Feeding Coventry].”

“I first came to Feeding Coventry with a friend to offer morale support. She was receiving help from one of the caseworkers. I was a bit down in the dumps at the time. I was recovering from surgery.

I live with my son who’s disabled. He can’t walk very well... It gives him a bit of freedom and... me... I’m not from round here. I lost my husband six years ago. If I hadn’t come here, I’d have probably moved on from Coventry.

Since joining the garden group, I’ve made new friends. I come every week if I can. I enjoy planting and digging and doing general garden work. It’s lovely here.

 

Thank you very much for making me feel like a person again.”