Started in 1982 by a group of partners from Methodist churches, the Carpenter's cafe aims to offer a safe place, reasonably priced food and drink, and a listening ear if needed. The cafe is located in Knight's Arcade in Redruth.
Two paid managers run the café on a day-to-day basis, aided by volunteers from local churches and voluntary organisations. Each working day is begun with a short prayer.
The café also takes young people for work experience and Duke of Edinburgh’s award experience. Some of these young people enjoy the work and continue to help us when they can, after their work experience has finished.
The café is regularly visited by the children and young people from the Curnow School and other social organisations.
George was struck by the pleasant atmosphere and kindness saying, "Carpenters cafe is a great and long standing example of a strong society in Redruth. It provides an important benefit to the community by bringing people together for company, it offers very low cost food to those in most need and it engages volunteers to help them back in to full time employment."
Anyone wishing to volunteer should make an initial approach through ‘Volunteer Cornwall’ who can be contacted on 01209 217614, email [email protected].
The pictures show George Eustice MP with Hester and John Gillbard, Elizabeth Triggs, manager Ruth Malyan and some of the volunteers.