Salvation Army café call for volunteers to make a difference
published on 6 Aug 2025
The Salvation Army’s Café on the Rec in Stowmarket is appealing for more volunteers to help meet growing demand and extend its opening hours.
The café, on the town’s Recreation Ground, is known for its welcoming atmosphere, affordable refreshments and the safe, friendly space it provides for people of all age. With increasing footfall and community interest, the church and charity in the town is keen to extend its opening hours but more helping hands are needed to make it possible.
Sandra Ambrose, café coordinator, said The Salvation Army would love to be able to support the community more through having the café open at peak times but can only do this with more volunteers to support the work.
She explained: “We are looking for people who would like to give back to their community, meet new people, learn new skills and gain confidence. This could also be a pathway back to paid employment. No previous experience is required – just a warm attitude and a desire to help others.”
Current volunteers say they enjoy working at The Café on the Rec.
One said: “I feel I’ve helped the community by bringing people together, to meet up with new-found friends. More people are using the Rec because they have the café to meet at, which is very gratifying. I have made lots of close friends amongst our team and I feel I have helped young volunteers to gain confidence and the experience to apply for jobs.”
Another said volunteering at the café has helped them develop personally.
She explained: “I love being part of the café volunteer team that has also given me another opportunity to look after dogs, as we are very people and dog friendly at the café. It has built my confidence and helped me to have a purpose and a reason to get out of bed when I have volunteered for an early shift!! When I first volunteered I was still suffering from a period of depression and volunteering at the café definitely helped my recovery and built my confidence.”
Collect an application form from the café, ring 01449 614133 or email Sandra.ambrose@salvationarmy.org.uk. Applicants are welcome to call for an informal chat before completing the form.
