Primrose Methodist Church feeding scheme supports struggling families

As economic pressures continue to rise, more people are struggling to put food on the table, and soup kitchens and organisations that provide meals have become a beacon of hope.

The Methodist Church in Primrose has stepped into this critical role, feeding the hungry and restoring dignity to those in need.

Church member Carol Bowler says the church has run a feeding scheme for almost 20 years. Every Thursday, it provides sandwiches and mini meal hampers.

“This was a small feeding scheme when it started, helping only a handful of people. Now, it is a lifeline for hundreds of homeless and destitute residents. The numbers are growing every week, and the line gets longer,” said Bowler.

She said over the years, unemployment and the rising cost of living have left families struggling to put food on the table. The church has become a lifeline for some families and individuals.

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Every week, long queues form outside the church gates for a meal, a food parcel, or simply a gesture of compassion.

Volunteers, many of them congregants, arrive early to prepare whatever is available for the day, using donations collected from within the church and the surrounding community. Bowler said this mission is deeply rooted in faith.

“Feeding the hungry is not charity; it is a calling. We are responding to what we see around us. People are hungry, and we cannot turn away. If we don’t open, we know a family will suffer that day because that can mean no meal for them,” she said.

She added that sometimes they don’t have enough, as they rely on congregants to donate.

“We occasionally have people outside the church who donate vegetables and fruit, but most of the donations come from the church. We do need more contributions—it would be highly appreciated because that means we can feed more people,” said Bowler.

As demand continues to grow, the church has created a system for tracking the number of people who come for meals.

“We have developed a card system. This helps us track who regularly comes, and also, when we have more to offer, we know the numbers,” said Bowler.

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Last December, the church held a Christmas party for the less fortunate. Many of these beneficiaries have nowhere to go during festive times, and some don’t even have families. The church organises these lunches so they can feel seen and loved.

Beyond addressing immediate hunger, the church is also creating spaces of hope and connection. For many beneficiaries, the meals offer more than just nourishment—they provide a sense of belonging and emotional support during difficult times.

Conversations shared over a plate of food often become moments of healing for individuals facing not only financial hardship but also isolation.

“We may not have everything, but we share what we have. Sometimes it’s not about how much you give, but the willingness to give,” said Bowler.

She invited residents and businesses in the area to join the church in feeding those in need. Donations can be dropped off at 28 Primula Road.