LAUNCHED by Kings Church, Wokingham in September 2022, The WELL has become a vital place of support for many in the town.
Originally created to provide a Warm Place and basic food support, the initiative has grown into a thriving community hub, offering not only practical help but also a deep sense of belonging, dignity, and connection.
Every Wednesday, Kings Church opens its doors to enable 60 to 80 people from a wide range of backgrounds to come together to share a free, home-cooked meal in a warm, welcoming space.
As well as eating together, each week around 40 families receive a range of food support for around 100 individuals.
But the weekly meals are more than nourishment, say organisers.
“Strangers become friends, loneliness is eased, connections are built, at a time when isolation and hardship affect so many,” said Shan from Kings Church.
Shan has volunteered with The WELL for three years, and in March this year she started a crafting group for Hong Kongers.
She said: “Recently I brought in some ladies from Hong Kong to set up a new initiative at The WELL.
“It’s called Crafting Smiles, and it has been growing quickly among the local Hong Kong community.
“It started with just a few volunteers, and has already grown to more than 30 people, inspiring similar groups in over 15 UK regions.”
Using people’s crochet skills Crafting Smile has donated more than 13,000 handmade items to different causes.
The crafters have made GiveASmileCards for hospital patients, forget-me-not flower bracelets for Alzheimer’s Society, butterflies for bereaved families, worry worms to help students relieve stress, and poppies to mark remembrance and community spirit.
Members are also raising funds through charity sales to support a number of other charities, including Royal Berkshire Hospital.
“This group is not only spreading love and hope through handmade gifts, but also empowering volunteers to give back to a wider community,” said Shan.
“It’s connecting people across different cultures, and truly living out the original purpose of the Well Project.”
The Well meets at Kings Church, Wokingham, on Wednesdays, from from 11am until 3pm.
People make lunch together, (often a warming soup) followed by an opportunity to share life and hobbies with each other.
Soups are made from fresh ‘Share’ produce, and a pop-up ‘Share’ stall is available after lunch, offering food items for people to take home.
Times of prayer and reflection take place through the session.
Hot drinks are available from 11am, with soup and bread lunch from 12.30pm.
From noon until 3pm Share produce is available to take home.
For information, visit: kingschurch.org.uk or visit the church’s Facebook page.
