Ribbons and Cupcakes to Celebrate the Opening of Our New Foodbank Reception Area
We have officially opened our newly refurbished Food bank reception area, creating a warm and welcoming space for those seeking support in the heart of Lisburn. The event on Friday 29 August brought together Mayor Amanda Grehan and local business supporters who made the project possible.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Mayor Grehan, who has a long-standing personal connection to LCC Community Trust as a former volunteer. She praised the work of Lisburn Foodbank in walking alongside people during times of crisis and said the new reception area would help ensure everyone is welcomed with dignity and warmth.
“This is more than the reopening of a space; it’s the continuation of something truly meaningful, a lifeline for those in need and a reminder that no one in our community should face hunger or hardship alone,” she said.
A space built with community support
Our CEO, Lynsey Caqeua, thanked local businesses for their generosity in making the project a reality.
“We are more than just a food bank,” she said. “Alongside emergency food support, we provide a range of wrap-around services such as debt management advice and cookery classes to help set people on a more positive path. This reception area represents our commitment to the people of Lisburn, and it simply would not have been possible without the support of our local business community.”
The project was supported by several Lisburn businesses, including:
- The Eikon Exhibition Centre, which contributed as part of its 10th birthday celebrations, providing in-kind donations, time and expertise.
- Pladis (McVities), Trussell and B&Q provided financial support towards new tables, chairs and flooring.
- Bodel Distributions, a Lisburn-based kitchen appliance distributor of 49 years, which donated a sink, kettle, and fridge for our coffee station.
- Tide Bathrooms, a neighbour to the Food bank in Graham Gardens, which donated a new toilet and wash-hand basin.
- Michael, Ricky and Damian, trusted contributors whose skilled craftsmanship and practical support helped to bring it all together.
Each of these businesses expressed how impressed they were by the range of services LCCCT provides, offering not just food, but practical advice, debt support, and friendship.
A celebration with a personal touch
As guests gathered to celebrate, there was an extra sweet moment: one of our volunteers baked cupcakes for the occasion, complete with icing in the Food bank green. The treats went down a storm and no one was in a hurry to leave as everyone enjoyed chats over tea and cake.
The event was a success and after 12 years of operating as a hub for care and community through our Food bank and other vital services, the new reception has already become a warm, welcoming, and inviting space for everyone in the community; serving as a reminder that You belong here at LCC Community Trust!