“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 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.”

“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.”

“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”