EVERYONE in Southampton had access to a Christmas Day feast thanks to the efforts of a team of volunteers.
On Sunday morning, Southampton Sunday Lunch Project volunteers rolled up their sleeves and served a three-course meal for anyone in need.
The crew threw open the doors to their venues in Woolston and St Denys at 10am to ensure nobody went hungry.
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Residents gathered around the table and enjoyed cookies along with a hot cup of tea.
Later, they were served soup, spiced carrots, beef, and turkey with bubble and squeak.
Retired chef, Kevin Davis, who cooked the meals, said: "Before Covid, I used to work at three different venues and cook lunches for the homeless shelters but after Covid, none of them reopened, which is a shame.
Kevin has been a part of the Sunday Lunch Project for almost two years.
He added: "This project is very important to me. I am grateful to carry on cooking."
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Other volunteers running around and helping in the kitchen were Linda Burke, Becky Lissaman, and Yevon Firing.
Sholing resident, Roseanne Helme, described the importance of the project.
The 69-year-old said: "This is like our second home.
"We all feel welcome here, and the volunteers go above and beyond for all of us.
"Here, we are like a family, where no one is judged and everyone feels valued.
"I just love every minute of it."
The Sunday Lunch Project has been running for almost 32 years, every Sunday, providing free food and unlimited tea and coffee.
It is open to anyone with no questions asked.
Woolston resident Angel Tirra, 66, added: "I have been part of this for most of my life.
"I have met new people and made so many friends.
"Nobody judges us here or is nasty.
"We get listened to."
Residents were also given baked goods and sweet treats from Greggs, along with toiletries and other stuff.
The food was given out at St Denys Church Centre and at St Mark's Hall in Victoria Road, opposite The Oven Door Bakery in Woolston.
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