Kell’s Kitchen, a beloved community café in Pinehurst’s Pinetrees Community Centre, has just celebrated its first birthday in style.
The event saw locals gather for live music, a raffle, and free cupcakes, as they marked a year of the café’s success in supporting those struggling with mental health in Swindon.
Operated by The Kelly Foundation, the charity café was set up in memory of BBC journalist Kelly Jobanputra, who tragically took her own life in 2019 following years of battling with her mental health and the loss of her brother, Corrie. The foundation now aims to offer support and a safe space for those in similar situations, helping the community by providing an outlet for conversation, workshops, and even the chance for participants to help run the café.
Over the past year, Kell’s Kitchen has blossomed, supported by a dedicated team of 24 volunteers and two part-time staff members. These volunteers, many living with mental health challenges or learning disabilities, bring both heart and hard work to the café every day. As the café has grown, its menu has expanded, offering daily meals such as all-day breakfasts, hot sandwiches, and even burgers, alongside a full children’s menu, making it a firm favourite within the local community.
Each Thursday, the café also runs a popular lunch club, where locals can enjoy a two-course meal for just £5.50. Menu favourites include English classics like roast dinners, pies, and curries, alongside a selection of desserts such as sticky toffee pudding and apple strudel. A monthly raffle adds to the excitement, with funds going back into the charity to support its mental health work.
Amongst those attending the anniversary event was Mayor of Swindon, Councillor Imtiyaz Shaikh, who praised the dedication of the volunteers and the impact Kell’s Kitchen has had on the local area. “Happy first birthday to Kell’s Kitchen!” he said. “It’s wonderful to see this charity café thriving and making a positive impact on our community.”
John Stooke, Chairman of The Kelly Foundation and father to Kelly, expressed his gratitude for the community’s support. “We may not be professional caterers, but we are a family. When things occasionally go wrong, we rally together, and our customers show huge understanding and goodwill.”
Emma Rees, Chief Operating Officer of The Kelly Foundation, shared her pride in how the café has brought people together. “We’ve raised over £530 from the raffle alone, which will go directly into providing therapy for those recovering from mental health illness.”
With the community firmly behind it, Kell’s Kitchen is set to continue providing much-needed support and a welcoming environment for all. Here’s to many more years of success for this inspiring local café.
Further information about Kell’s Kitchen and The Kelly Foundation can be found at The Kelly Foundation.
