A PEEBLES charity is set to open its doors to provide a warm space for families struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.

Starting next week, the Food Foundation will welcome people every Tuesday and Thursday at the Victoria Park Centre.

Volunteers will serve either soup, sandwich and a hot drink, or a hot meal plus a hot drink on alternate days, on a donate what you can basis.

The sessions will run between 11.30am-2pm, with all welcome.

Its increasingly popular takeaway market continues to operate from the site on Kingsmeadows Road on weekdays from 10am to 3pm.

Border Telegraph: Food Foundation

A spokesperson for the charity said: "This food takeaway has proved to be very handy for people on the south side of Peebles and customers can enjoy an excellent range of nutritious hot and cold food options including soups, sandwiches, quiches and a daily hot food special.

"All of which, along with a variety of delicious tray bakes and other treats, are freshly prepared by staff and volunteers.

"The outdoor seating area will reopen again in the spring allowing customers to sit and enjoy their takeaways.

"In addition, the kitchen supplies baked goods and savoury dishes to a number of local businesses and can also cater for office lunches, parties and other small private events."

Books are also available at the centre for people to take away and enjoy.

The Food Foundation, like many organisations in Peeblesshire, is having to adapt to a new normal in an effort to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

The charity has provided young people in the community with training opportunities in a working environment for nearly 15 years,

And its main goal still remains to return to the core purpose of the organisation, which is supporting people with disabilities to build confidence and learn new skills within a catering environment.

It also has a range of other 'community-centred goals' including helping older people to feel connected to the community by providing nutritious hot meals and friendship.

The spokesperson added: "With the continued support of staff, volunteers and the local community in Peebles the board is confident that the Food Foundation will continue to go from strength to strength.

"Hosting a regular food stall within one of our sheltered housing communities provides an inter-generational opportunity for both young people and the elderly to come together and interact within a social environment.

"We are however urgently looking for volunteers to help us in meeting our goals. If you are interested and can spare some time to work with us, please contact us at Victoria Park on 01721 722421."