A WARM welcome and a hot meal awaits every Monday at The VC Gallery in Pembroke Dock, where the charity has launched a new pay-what-you-can community lunch as part of its expanding Creative Kitchen project.

Held at The VC Gallery’s Britannia Road hub, Monday Lunch offers freshly made, nutritious meals in a relaxed and inclusive space where everyone is welcome, and payment is entirely optional; guests contribute only what they can afford.

The new Monday session complements the charity’s popular Tuesday Shared Community Lunch, a much-loved staple which already brings together dozens of regulars each week. Both days aim to reduce loneliness, build community, and provide practical help during challenging times.

The Creative Kitchen project is co-ordinated by Corinne Cariad and Charlie Laugharne, who bring creativity, compassion, and kitchen know-how to the heart of this initiative. Together, they work with volunteers and local food suppliers to turn surplus ingredients into delicious, low-cost meals - and meaningful moments of connection.

Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, Creative Kitchen also offers hands-on cooking sessions where participants can learn how to make healthy meals on a budget, using ingredients donated by FareShare and partners including Co-op, Asda, KFC, Bookers and Puffin Produce. The project also supports housebound veterans across Pembrokeshire with hot meal deliveries.

“This isn’t just about food—it’s about dignity, confidence and community,” says Steph Cross, Director of The VC Gallery. “We’re proud to have Charlie and Corinne on board leading this exciting new chapter.”

With sites in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, the charity supports over 250 people each week - and the kitchen has become a growing part of that work.

Lunch is served at 12.30pm on Mondays and Tuesdays - just turn up and pay what you can. Call 01646 685688 or email [email protected] for more information.