The initiative aims to address food insecurity, reduce social isolation and strengthen community cohesion by creating a welcoming space where people from across Whiteinch and Scotstoun can come together.

The Community Meal was made possible through funding from Whiteinch and Scotstoun Housing Association’s (WSHA) 2024/25 Participatory Budgeting Fund.

Angela Molloy, community services officer at WSHA, praised the impact of the day: “An event like this is what communities are all about. The buzz in the air was fantastic. I was delighted to hear that 87% of those who attended were WSHA tenants, especially as without the funding from WSHA the Community Meal wouldn’t be possible.”

One new tenant who joined the meal highlighted the importance of feeling included: “I am a new tenant of the Housing Association and I thought I’d give this a bash. I‘m so glad I did. A lot of other places don’t do stuff like this for their tenants and community, but it’s great to see, be invited and to feel included.”

Lee Raeside, community projects co-ordinator, said: “An event like this is about much more than the food. It’s great to see so many diverse members of the community, be they communities of colour or interest, coming together and breaking bread. Food is often a communal experience and being able to provide that experience to community members is amazing.”

The meal was delivered in partnership with Totnosh, an East Renfrewshire-based organisation known for its creative cooking classes in schools and community groups across Glasgow, Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire.

Louisa, founder of Totnosh, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with TWC to bring people together around the table. Sharing a meal together is such a simple but powerful way to build connections and reduce isolation. As well as providing a healthy, nutritious meal these events are also about creating a welcoming space where local people can meet, talk and enjoy some nourishing food together.”

The Whiteinch Centre plans to build on this successful first Community Meal with future monthly meals designed to ensure that everyone feels welcome, supported and connected.