Cafe Sobar joins campaign to offer free meals for children over half-term

Over the October half-term holiday, Cafe Sobar has supported the campaign started by footballer Marcus Rashford to feed schoolchildren at risk of going hungry, by providing a free meal, drink and fruit to anyone who needs the service. They also provided a free hot drink to accompanying adults, whilst local COVID restrictions permitted this.

The campaign was in response to the government’s refusal to continue to provide a free meal to those children who are entitled to it over the school holidays. Funds were raised through the general public by Sobar’s Head Chef, Tom Vintner, who pledged to create and serve the meals if some costs could be covered. Any funds not used during October half-term will be carried forward to provide the service during future school holidays.

Cafe Sobar’s manager, Jason Loftus said,

"We were really happy to be able to take part in and support this campaign. Cafe Sobar is here for the community, loads of our regular customers are families with children, and it just felt like the natural thing for us to get involved. Trading conditions are tough at the moment and it’s been a real boost to all the staff here to be able to make a difference to families in Nottingham."

Cafe Sobar is a social enterprise set up local drug and alcohol recovery charity, Double Impact. It’s aims are to create work experience for people in recovery, as well as providing a safe and welcoming space for anyone who appreciates socialising without the pressures of alcohol. Over the past 6 years it has become known for its welcoming atmosphere, fantastic food and drink, live music and wealth of community events.

With grant support from the NatWest Social & Community Capital Fund and the National Lottery Community Fund, it has been able to re-open, and is committed to serving the communities of Nottingham throughout the current crisis and beyond.