Newark Salvation Army returns with its Toasties Cafe this summer

Freshly toasted sandwiches, unlimited hot drinks and a warm welcome are all on the menu this summer as The Salvation Army in Balderton reopens its popular Toasties Café, helping local families stretch their budgets while enjoying a place to relax, play and connect.  

Running every Tuesday until the end of August, the café opens from 10am to 2pm at The Salvation Army, Mead Way, Balderton, Newark, NG24 3GA, with toasties served from 12 noon. 

For just £2, visitors can enjoy a freshly made toastie, while unlimited hot drinks are also available for £2. Even better, children receive a free toastie, with no adult meal purchase required, ensuring every family can enjoy a nourishing lunch during the school holidays. 

Alongside the food, the café transforms into a lively community space packed with activities including sports, table tennis, pool, table football, crafts and a toddler soft play area, creating an affordable day out for families of all ages. 

The initiative reflects The Salvation Army's commitment to supporting local people through the summer holidays, when food costs often increase and many families look for low-cost activities to keep children entertained. 

Sarah O’Grady, church leader of Salvation Army in Newark, said: “We know that the summer holidays can be an especially challenging time for families when routines change, costs go up, and the pressure to keep children fed and entertained can feel overwhelming. 

“Toasties Café is our way of saying, ‘You don’t have to do this alone.’ It’s a space where families can gather, enjoy a warm, affordable meal, and where children can laugh, play, and just be kids. Best of all, children eat completely free. No referrals, no bookings, no questions asked. Just turn up and feel welcome.” 

The café is expected to become a regular meeting place throughout the holidays, offering parents, grandparents and carers an opportunity to connect while children enjoy a range of free activities in a safe and welcoming environment. 

Gail, a mother and carer added: "The cafe is a blessing to the community. It's very expensive for families to do anything fun these days, and the Toastie Cafe has been that place where the kids can have fun and it doesn't cost an arm and a leg." 

The mother of two added: "One of my sons requires additional needs, and the play area here is exactly suitable for him. The people are friendly. This is our second year of attending. And yes, the toast is free for the children!" 

With a five-star food hygiene rating and a simple, family-friendly menu, Toasties Café is proving that great food doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. 

Whether dropping in for lunch, staying for the games or simply enjoying a cuppa and conversation, everyone is invited to take a seat at the table this summer. 

The Salvation Army in Newark offers a welcoming space throughout the week with a variety of activities including community warm space, youth club, monthly lunch club, and Charity & Book Shop. For more information on activities from The Salvation Army in Newark follow on Facebook