When we went into lockdown, we knew, in an area such as Cockfield, YMCA Community Cafe had a role to play in supporting the community through these unprecedented times. This, our small way of ensuring locals remained fed, happy and connected. 

Thanks to our funders and partners, we have been busy delivering hot meals and Teesdale Care Packages to those in need. Whether it be people in isolation not getting out, an older more vulnerable person or just someone who needed that lift, each week we have ensured that a hot, wholesome meal has been delivered along with TCR Hub’s Teesdale Care Packages packed full of goodies to keep them going the rest of the week.

We were also able to deliver activity packs for children and young people in Cockfield and Evenwood during May half term to “beat the boredom”. We hope you all enjoyed the sunshine and planting your seeds. We can’t wait to hear how they have grown and whether you have managed to harvest any carrots or peas!

Thanks to The Bowes Museum, we have seen Bouts Activity packs sent out over the last couple of weeks, encouraging our children and young people to get creative, especially on duller days.

These past few months you may have noticed YMCA staff (especially Kate and Hayley) moving around Cockfield during lockdown and we received lots of enquiries about whether or not we were open. We’re delighted to announce that we are heading towards re-opening the cafe at an increasingly fast pace now and we are very much looking forward to welcoming all our lovely customers back to the cafe for take out only meals. 

As we re-open we look forward to welcoming you back to our small Cafe which really is a community space for all.