'We are really excited about the future': New chapter for Llandrindod community fridge

A community fridge in Llandrindod Wells has celebrated the opening of its newly refurbished facilities after a strong turnout from local residents.

Visitors to the opening morning were able to look around the new pantry, refurbished community room, kitchen and Foodshare facilities, as well as enjoy hot food, refreshments and a raffle.

The Mayor, Cllr Steve Deeks-D'Silva, attended the event and made a £100 donation to support the Community Fridge, while Councillor Jake Berriman, who has supported the project and its work locally, was also there.

There was a chance for visitors to see the improvements and find out more about what the new facilities will offer. A large amount of surplus food was also available, demonstrating the Community Fridge’s work to reduce food waste while supporting local people.

The new pantry will provide another way of helping people and families who may be struggling, giving them access to essential food items in a welcoming and community-focused environment.

The refurbishment has also transformed the community room, which now has a new kitchen, reading corner and improved facilities. These changes will allow the space to be used for a wider range of activities, including cooking workshops.

Community Fridge Coordinator Laura Rimmer Khan said the team was delighted with the response to the opening.

“We are absolutely thrilled with how well the opening morning went,” she said.

“It was wonderful to see so many people coming along, enjoying the new space and finding out more about what the Community Fridge can offer.

“We are really excited about the future and all the opportunities these new facilities will bring to our community.”

The project was supported by Community Focused Schools and The National Lottery - and the Community Fridge would like to extend a huge thank you to both for helping to make this vision a reality.

The Llandrindod Wells Community Fridge was started by Jen Craven nearly four years ago and has continued to grow.

“I’m incredibly proud of how far the Fridge has come and of everything it has achieved for our community,” she said.

“Although my role has changed, I continue to support the Community Fridge and am delighted to see it going from strength to strength under Laura Rimmer Khan’s leadership.”

The Community Fridge is now open every Monday and Friday from 10am to 11am, giving local residents regular opportunities to access the Foodshare and find out more about the support available.

A new Community Café will launch on Monday, October 5, from 11:30am to 12:30pm. It will then run on the first Monday of every month during term time, offering a place for people to meet, enjoy food and refreshments and have a chat.

And there is plenty more to come, with a number of community events planned over the coming months.