Every year Irish Community Service’s team staff and volunteers provide over 11,000 lunches to older members of the Irish community.

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Our lunch clubs are about so much more than providing a healthy and affordable meal for elderly people. It’s where older people can come together and meet and make new friend, to see old ones, and to socialise.

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Many of our clients are bereaved and lonely. The loss of their partner is compounded by a loss of independence and confidence, as many elderly people are unable or no longer able to drive. For them, our lunch clubs are a lifeline out of loneliness and isolation, and a way back into friendships, support and a sense of community.

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Everyone sits together to eat, with the meal bingo followed by activities such as bingo and raffles. The clubs also arrange day trips and events throughout the year, and key birthdays are marked and celebrated.