Cork Penny Dinners launches 'Just One Meal' appeal 

Cork Penny Dinners has launched its ‘Just One Meal’ appeal, asking the public to support a nutritious meal for people in need.

A donation of €5 – the cost of preparing a meal at the James St charity – can be made online through the charity’s website.

Through the continued generosity of the people of Cork, the charity can sustain its 365-day service, ensuring people experiencing food poverty and hunger have access to food, dignity and support throughout the year.

Thanks to the recent reintroduction of the sit-down service, people can also come inside and enjoy some company with their meal.

Founded in 1888, Cork Penny Dinners has supported generations of people across Cork, providing hot meals, food hampers and essential support to those who need it most.

Head chef at the charity’s kitchen on James Street, Jack Revell said: “Every meal prepared at Cork Penny Dinners is made with care and the knowledge that food can bring comfort and connection.

“Our meals are prepared to the highest safety standards. A warm meal is something many people take for granted, but for someone who is struggling, it can make a huge difference.” 

Lisa Murphy, a volunteer at the charity who has lived experience as a Cork Penny Dinners service user, said: “I relied on this charity 24 years ago when I lived on the streets of Cork city.

“My chronic alcoholism left me homeless and I depended on the food at Cork Penny Dinners every single day for two-and-a-half years, but also the dignity that I was shown and the company and care I always received here.

“Now that I’m a volunteer at the charity and my life is not like that anymore – thanks to the support and recovery from the good people of Cork, I feel so blessed to be able to give back and I urge anyone who can afford just €5 to donate Just One Meal – that meal will save a life in Cork,” she said.