The Salvation Army in Preston is helping members of the community who are struggling to pay their energy bills get through the winter weather.

The church and community centre in Harrington Street has partnered with the Warm Welcome campaign, a network of organisations who are opening their doors to provide a space for people to keep warm.  

The warm hub is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm, and people attending can enjoy free hot drinks and also toast. 

Read more: New Preston ‘warm bank’ to help people in need this winter

Captain Debbie Eaton, church leader at The Salvation Army in Preston, said: “We have seen local people struggling to make ends meet, people who never thought they would find themselves in the position of choosing whether to heat their homes or continue to put food on the table

“It’s a choice that no one should have to face and when the temperatures suddenly drop, that decision becomes all the more frightening.  

“We are offering a space for people to come and be warm whilst also enjoying a hot cuppa and some nice toast. For us, it’s about providing a friendly, warm and welcoming space at the coldest of times.”

The Salvation Army also offers a weekly food bank that’s open Monday to Friday from 9am until 1pm, and works on three referrals per person per year. The Preston church and community centre works with local organisations including schools, doctors, health visitors and Citizens Advice.  

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