The Hall at St. Vincent’s, affectionately known as Vinnies, opened its doors in October 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne.

It is a welcoming space where all visitors are embraced, providing a cosy and expansive setting for meeting, dining, and engaging in conversation with friends.

From its humble beginnings, this vital establishment has rapidly expanded its reach. Through the Fare Share Scheme, the kitchen coordinator, supported by a committed group of volunteers, ensures that over 140 individuals facing isolation and homelessness are nourished each week. This initiative involves gathering surplus food from local supermarkets and transforming it into delectable and freshly prepared meals.

In addition, the hardworking team of volunteers provide table service to the visitors, as well as a range of services from haircuts to housing advice, and help with benefits or just a listening ear.

A sharp rise in the number of people attending in recent months, as well as the rising costs of the ingredients used to make the meals on its menu, has been eased by Northumberland Freemasons who, through the Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund, have donated £1000 to assist with the weekly drop-in lunch club, where visitors receive a free, hot three-course lunch, prepared by the selfless team of volunteers.

“St Vincents Newcastle was delighted to receive a grant award from Northumberland Freemasons. This generous grant allows us to meet the increased demand on our support services offering essential food, clothing and household items to those struggling in our communities. Last year St Vincents supported over 12,000 people. The cost of living is impacting us all, but we know that for some, things can get quite desperate quite quickly. Northumberland Freemasons values the practical, responsive and respectful way St Vincents helps anyone in need, and we are deeply appreciative of their support.

Rebecca Stevenson-Read, the Centre Manager

” When the Trustees of the Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund were asked to help this important and vital centre in Newcastle, which supports many families and individuals during these difficult and testing times due to the financial crisis which we are all facing, there was no hesitation to give a grant of £1000 to help cover the cost of  the Lunch Club and Food Bank, as well as the other services

Norman West, the Provincial Grand Almoner of Northumberland Freemasons

The Benevolent Fund donates around £160,000 annually to local charities and good causes, including food banks, to boost worthwhile and deserving projects throughout Northumberland, Newcastle and North Tyneside.


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