A community cafe that was launched to support its community during lockdown is celebrating a successful first year.
The Barn Community Café, based at Carmondean Community Centre, celebrated its first birthday, and was officially opened by Steven Turnbull of the West Lothian Food Network.
The Barn began as a pilot in the midst of the pandemic last year to provide a space for people to socialise safely.
It is a not for profit enterprise that is part of a wider hospitality project, and an initiative of Livingston United Parish Church LUPC).
Listen Well Scotland has recently engaged The Barn to pilot their vital services and it’s also the evening venue for those attending the Stepping Stones Bereavement Support programme.
Fundraising events for Macmillan Cancer, The Ukrainian Appeal and Christian Aid at The Barn were well supported benefitting the local community and beyond.
Also present to celebrate its achievements were representatives from West Lothian Council, the Methodist Church, Church of Scotland, Carmondean Community Centre Management Group, local councillors Anne McMillan and Alison Adamson, and Morrison’s Community Champion, Fiona Hendry.
A spokesperson said: “The Barn was full to the brim with customers, and the volunteers’ home baked chocolate, vanilla, and lemon birthday cakes were handed round to celebrate.
“Fair Trade products are used where possible, a loyalty card is offered for regulars and a ‘Pay it Forward’ scheme where customers can pay a little more towards a fund that will be used to pay for a drink or meal for someone who isn’t able to afford it.
“Given the overwhelming successes of The Barn so far, we are all excited to see how the wider LUPC hospitality project will continue to benefit the community in years to come.”
The Barn is run by Norma Brown with the help of a wonderful team of volunteers on Mondays and Fridays, 8.30am to 1.30pm serving breakfast, homemade scones, cakes and lunch.
In the short time The Barn has been running, it has proved to be very popular.
Customers have praised The Barn’s “warm, hospitable atmosphere”, “friendly volunteers” and “community spirit”, as well as its “delicious and competitively priced food”.
If you would like to volunteer please get in touch with Norma Brown 07758 938941, thebarn@lupc.org.uk or simply pop in for a coffee and a chat. (Open Mondays and Fridays 8.30am-1.30pm) A warm welcome is guaranteed.
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