Community Spotlight: Heart on the Terrace

Recently, we had the privilege of visiting Heart on the Terrace in Murton, a vibrant and welcoming community hub that truly lives up to its name.

From the moment you walk in, it’s clear this is more than just a place to access support. It’s a space where people come together to connect, create and feel part of something. Regular activities range from crafts and choir sessions to lunch clubs and workshops, all designed to bring people together and reduce isolation. On the day we visited, the community was busy handcrafting poppies for a Remembrance display, just one example of how creativity and collaboration sit at the heart of the hub.

Food, however, plays a vital role in everything they do. With the help of surplus food delivered by FareShare North East, Heart on the Terrace provides a daily pantry, affordable food parcels, and freshly prepared meals throughout the week. Their hot meal offer has grown thanks to regular deliveries, enabling them to provide more opportunities for people to sit down and enjoy a warm, home-cooked dish. On our visit, the menu featured a comforting shepherd’s pie, made using surplus vegetables that might otherwise have gone to waste.

Behind the meals are dedicated volunteers like Pam, whose years of catering experience help bring care and quality to every plate. But more than the food itself, it’s what those meals represent that really stands out. For many in the community, having access to a hot meal can ease the pressure of cooking, especially during times when mental health challenges make everyday tasks feel overwhelming.

One volunteer described Heart on the Terrace as a “lifeline”. They offer not just food, but friendship, routine, and a sense of belonging. It’s a place where people look out for one another and where no one has to feel alone.

We’re incredibly proud to support groups like Heart on the Terrace and to see first-hand how surplus food can help build stronger, more connected communities.