Help at Christmas - 2023

Christmas is a challenging time of year, not just because of the stress and panic over gifts and who's doing the cooking, but for some it's the simple things like, how are they going to afford it?

It's not right that some have to think like this, so we've compiled a short guide on places who may be able to assist.

We're breaking our own rule for this one - we've extended the radius outside of Blaenau Gwent, as some places in Torfaen, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire and Merthyr, can also help.

Please - don't be afraid to ask for help. These schemes and organisations are here to help out at times of need.

Blaenau Gwent

• Asda, Brynmawr
  Kids can eat for £1 at Asda Café. No other purchases required.
  
  
• Brewers Fayre, Ebbw Vale
  Two children under 16 can have a free breakfast with every paying adult.
  
  
• Caffi Tyleri, Abertillery
  Serving free soup every Friday (closed 29th December)
  
  
• Ebenezer Baptist Church, Abertillery
  A warm place providing hot drinks and food Wednesday - Friday, 12 noon - 2pm, and then Friday 29th December, 12 noon - 2pm.
  
  
• Gwent Valleys Evangelism
  Emergency food parcels are available from 88 Bailey Street, Brynmawr, from 11am onwards. The last day is Friday 22nd December.
  
  
• Morrisons, Ebbw Vale
  Spend £4.49 and get a free kids meal, all day, every day.

Outside Blaenau Gwent

• Channel View Community Centre, Risca
  Friday Coffee morning, 10am - noon. Free refreshments, crafts and a warm space. Last one takes place on Friday 22nd December. Free to attend.
  
  
• Snug Coffee Shop, Risca
  • Community Volunteers Wales are hosting a free Christmas dinner, donated by Tiny Rebel Brewery Bar. You need to register by visiting this form. They will confirm afterwards.
  • Also hosted here is a "Friendly Friday", 5:30pm - 6:30pm, with a free hot meal, games and a warm space. The last one takes place on 22nd December. Free to attend.
    
    
• Community Volunteers Wales
  Free Winter Warmer packs are available for those who need them (subject to availability). They're taking requests for free blankets, heaters, duvets, electric blankets etc. Just fill out this form.
  
  
• Sainsbury's, Pontllanfraith
  Kids eat for £1 with the purchase of an adult hot meal. Available daily from 11:30am
  
  
• Table Table, Merthyr Tydfil & Cwmbran
  Two children under 16 can get a free breakfast every day with one paying adult

While we've taken every care to ensure this is accurate, we haven't been able to verify all of the items listed above. They have been provided by the community and shared in good faith. If you know of any issues or inaccuracies, please contact us via our social channels.