The Friendship Cafe, a cherished community spot at Chequers Bridge Community Centre in Gloucester, has announced it will be closing its coffee shop in the coming weeks. The closure comes as a result of escalating operational costs and a significant reduction in funding for community organisations.
The charity managing the cafe expressed deep regret over the decision, emphasizing that it was made after careful consideration. Despite the coffee shop’s closure, other community services offered at the centre will continue to operate as usual.
Councillor Roseanna Marshall, representing Barton and Tredworth on Gloucester City Council, voiced her disappointment and hopes for the future. “The Friendship Cafe has been a vital asset and safe haven for many local residents,” she said. “While it’s sad to see the coffee shop close, I remain optimistic that with renewed financial support, it could reopen to serve the community once again.”
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In a statement, The Friendship Cafe highlighted the integral role the coffee shop has played as a welcoming community hub, maintained by dedicated staff and volunteers. However, with rising expenses and dwindling funding, the charity can no longer sustain the coffee shop’s operations as before.
“We are currently exploring options to reopen the space in a more sustainable manner,” the statement read. “We welcome ideas from the community on how the coffee shop could be reimagined to continue serving local needs.”
Members of the public with suggestions are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected]. The cafe expressed gratitude for the community’s support and understanding during this challenging time.