Churches, charities and businesses across the north are hosting or providing free Christmas dinners to those either in need or simply who are going to be alone on the day.
Some are hosting dinners for an expected more than a hundred people, while others are asking people to book ahead for pick up.
Dinner is available from noon to 2pm at the Ballynafeigh Methodist Church at 338 Ormeau Road in what is a long running partnership with nearby Rosario Youth centre. No booking is required for the dinners.
Bengal Brassiere, also on the Ormeau Road, is continuing a tradition the owners began in 2016. Approximately 150 were catered for last year and owner Luthfur Ahmed expects the same this year.
The restaurant will be open from noon to 8pm and places can be reserved by calling (028) 9069 2229.
City Church Belfast is offering Christmas dinners in Common Grounds, 12-24 University Avenue, between noon and 2pm. Halal and vegetarian options are available. To book, contact Carlos Neto at neto@citychurchbelfast.org.
Claude’s Café on Shipquay Street in Derry said it is “delighted to be running our traditional Christmas Day event”. The restaurant provides lunch and gifts to those in the community “who may be on their own or need some support on Christmas Day. The event will be held at the City Hotel.
West Belfast charity Foodstock on the Andersontown Road, led by Paul Doherty, plans to provide 350 meals on Christmas Day to those in the community feeling isolated or vulnerable.
Every year at @Foodstock__, we work with a very dedicated team of social workers, health visitors and local schools to identify those families sadly contemplating not having a christmas due to financial pressures.
— Paul Doherty (@PaulDoherty___) December 18, 2023
As a result of the incredible efforts of this community and the… pic.twitter.com/kCOor5nwjl
The charity, with the help of volunteers and Slim’s Kitchen, have provided meals for the last four years.
From 1pm on Christmas, there will be A Bite ‘n Banter at the at the Gateway Club Kilmorey Street, Newry on Christmas Day. There will be food and good company.
Gringos Takeaway on the Killylea Road in Armagh will once again be doing its bit with free dinners to people in the community.
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Dinners must be ordered ahead by Christmas Eve and can be collected from Gringos on December 25 from 1pm. Owner Ali Ahmad will deliver to those who cannot collect.
Omagh Community Church for the 10th year will be hosting Christmas dinner to the community in person from 12.3opm at the facility on Old Marketplace.
“At the heart of the Community Dinners is a desire to provide food for those who need it but also a friendly face and some conversation for many who find themselves alone during this festive period,” the church said.
A Bite Above in Ballymoney is continuing its tradition of providing meals boxed and ready for collection on Christmas Eve between 12 and 2pm, Those wishing a dinner can private message on social media or telephone the restaurant.