Bury Drop In is delighted to announce that it has been chosen to receive funding from West Suffolk Council’s Thriving Communities Fund 2025/26 to support a project: healthy meals to initiate change. The volunteer-led charity provides a front-line service to the West Suffolk community. Sessions run twice weekly, offering healthy nutritious meals, individual support and signposting to local agencies in a safe space.

Bury Drop In work closely together with the West Suffolk Council rough sleeper service to prevent and relieve homelessness in the West Suffolk region. Other local agencies attending include NHS Health Outreach, Job Centre Plus, the Samaritans, and Sexual Health to ensure that guests get the best support available. The presence of these agencies during sessions enables guests to receive help and advice on benefits, mental/physical health and housing. In addition, the charity hand-out emergency provisions including sleeping bags, tents, toiletries, and clothing/food vouchers.

Whilst expenditure increases, grant funding and donors have not returned to giving at a pre-covid rate. As a result, the charity is feeling the immense pressure of increased numbers, up by 25%, about 50 guests per a session. The funding will be used to help with operational costs, working closely with key stakeholders to deliver vital services required in the community. The charity is looking to involve new volunteers. For more information on volunteering with Bury Drop In and how to apply, please visit our webpage volunteer.