Published Date: Jun 11th, 2024
We are thrilled to announce that Oor Wee Cafe has won the Tackling Poverty award at the Fife Voluntary Action Awards. This fantastic achievement highlights the tremendous impact the cafe has had on the Kelty community since its started in August 2018.
Oor Wee Cafe was born out of a community need when a group of individuals approached Fife Council for support in creating an accessible and affordable cafe. Their vision was to establish a welcoming space where residents could meet, enjoy home-cooked healthy food, and support each other. The cafe also aims to eliminate food wastage, provide volunteering opportunities for those in need.
Maura Haddow, volunteer from Oor Wee Cafe, shared her excitement: "We are over the moon to receive this award. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and the support from the Kelty community. Our mission has always been to provide a safe, inclusive space for everyone, and this recognition is truly heartwarming. I'd would like to thank Fife Council and Kelty Community centre specifically for their ongoing support and successful partnership work."
Anne-Marie Vance, Cowdenbeath Area Community Manager, also expressed her pride in the cafe's achievements: "Oor Wee Café has been working with Krista, a community education worker focused on supporting community food projects in the Cowdenbeath area. They have embraced small changes that have made a big impact, including reviewing finances to ensure the best value for money, providing welfare support at every session to ensure attendees access all entitled benefits, introducing a membership model, and offering regular support and training for volunteers.
"Oor Wee Cafe is a shining example of community spirit and resilience. It’s incredible to see how the cafe has brought people together, provided essential support, and made a real difference in tackling poverty and social isolation in Kelty. Congratulations to everyone involved!"
Since its opening, Oor Wee Cafe has not only provided healthy meals suitable for vegetarians and those with gluten intolerance but has also become a vital social hub. The support from local businesses, community groups, and residents has been overwhelming, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of their collective efforts.
Here's to Oor Wee Cafe – continuing to make a positive impact in our community!