St Gabriel’s Junior School welcomed a special visitor on Monday 13 January, when Meryl Praill, founder of Newbury Soup Kitchen came into morning assembly to talk to our pupils and thank them for their recent donation. 

The retiring collections from the Carol Concert at St Nicolas’ Church and the two nativity performances in December, raised over £466 for this charity, chosen by the Junior School Council.

Newbury Soup Kitchen is a voluntary organisation, that has been operating for over three years.  They run a friendly drop-in centre every Thursday for vulnerable adults providing warm food, drinks and an opportunity to talk.   During her talk Mrs Praill told us that the kitchen opened up for breakfast on Christmas day, to help support those in need. 

“Thank you so much for your kind donation.  It is important we are all mindful and help others, those that are sad, be kind and offer your support.”

Meryl praill – founder & manager of newbury soup kitchen

The school council chose Newbury Soup Kitchen as they were aware of the importance of taking the time to give something back to the communities of which we are a part.  Additional donations are well received and help to expand their services, such as the additional Saturday Soup service they are now able to offer during the winter months.

“Our pupils and families have shown how much they care. By supporting Newbury Soup Kitchen, we help those less fortunate. I am extremely grateful to everyone who donated to this appeal. Helping vulnerable people will have a positive impact for everyone in our local community.”

MR PETER DOVE, HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL