Soup kitchens in athlone opens

DOZENS of people flocked to a soup kitchen which opened in Athlone this morning.
The voluntary venture, Twist, was opened by Oliver Williams who opened his first soup kitchen in Galway earlier this year.
They are now serving up to 100 customers a day, who are availing of the free hot food.
Mr Williams says he believes the Athlone venture will prove even more popular with the public.
"The need for something like this is great here. The response we've had is overwhelming. We've fed up to 20 people so far and it's only our first day. There is a genuine need out there among the public. We are seeing people from all walks of life," he said.
"Athlone has been badly hit by the recession and a lot of businesses are closing down. We welcome everyone. We try and offer people a place where they can come in and enjoy a meal and have a chat," he added.
The Athlone venture also incorporates a charity shop where people who wish to help can donate items.
"We don't take any money for the food or drinks, no matter who is availing of it. That is our policy. But people who want to help can buy something in the charity shop or donate items," said Mr Williams.
The Galway businessman first opened the free soup kitchen in June of this year in response to the growing numbers of people struggling to make ends meet.
While living in London in the 1980s he had been assisted by a similar soup kitchen. He told how he had always planned to return the favour.
Customers began arriving at 10am this morning when the doors opened at the cafe and shop in the middle of Athlone.
The venture is being supported by a number of local businesses which are donating meat, vegetables and bread each day. Mr Williams praised the support he had received from the local community.
"We couldn't do this without them, their help has been incredible. They are giving us the freshest of food every day which allows us to do this,"
For more information on Twist and how to help go to http://www.twistsoupkitchen.com/