THERE were full bellies and full hearts at Care & Share in Ayr as guests gathered for a lunch with a difference.
The event – hosted by the weekly drop-in that supports people affected by homelessness, poverty and addiction – celebrated Scotland’s national bard Robert Burns with food, music and a healthy dose of community spirit.
Guests were served a traditional two-course meal of Scotch broth followed by haggis, neeps and tatties, all lovingly prepared by a team of volunteers.
In true Burns fashion, the haggis was piped in with flair by Peter Bryson, then theatrically addressed by Mervyn Stuart, much to the crowd’s delight.
There was laughter, a few tears and a tangible sense of pride and belonging.
Special guest Ayr Depute Provost Mary Kilpatrick was also in attendance.
She said: "It was a privilege to have been invited along to Care & Share for a Burns lunch. The volunteers made it a special day for all involved, and they are a credit to the Riverside Community Trust.
"The Trust is a lifeline for members of our community, and it wouldn’t be able to carry out this fantastic work without the dedication of local people and businesses who provide meals, support, and good company.
"Just one example of this is a monthly lunch for service users hosted by the generous Mr and Mrs Cheng of the Ocean View Takeaway.”
Care & Share is run entirely by Riverside Community Trust (RCT), a local charity offering hot meals, toiletries and practical support. They also make referrals to partner services such as NHS South Ayrshire, SeAscape and Ayr Housing Aid.
Their Wednesday drop-ins, breakfast clubs and monthly community meals reach hundreds of people each month.
Bruce Bunten, RCT Strategic Manager, reflected on the deeper meaning behind the day.
He said: “Burns night is intrinsically connected to the marginalised, as Robert Burns was a voice for the poor, disenfranchised and the common people, often highlighting themes of equality.
" His works and celebrations champion social justice offering hope for a better world. It reminds us that real worth isn’t about wealth or status, but the spirit we carry.”
For many, this wasn’t just a hot meal – it was a moment of connection, dignity and celebration.
For more on Care & Share or to get involved, visit www.riversidecommunitytrust.org.uk.
The team regularly mark high days and holidays to bring joy and recognition to those who may otherwise feel forgotten.
Thanks to donations, partnerships and tireless volunteers, they continue to prove that small acts – like serving soup with a smile or honouring a national poet – can make a lasting difference.
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