Community meal STEW in York hands out funding to groups

The event, named STEW, was organised by York Together and took place at Bluebird Bakery on April 2.

It aimed to put funding decisions for community projects directly into the hands of York residents.

Attendees shared a meal and listened to pitches from three grassroots groups before deciding on the funding allocation.

Attendees listened to pitches from the groups (Image: Supplied) The sold-out event raised £547 from ticket sales, which was then divided among the three participating groups based on the votes received.

Make Space York took the largest share of the night’s prize pot, walking away with £397.

Abigail Gaines, from Make Space York, said: "I came away from STEW with a full heart.

"This was a wonderful community event with a supportive atmosphere.

"Attendees wrote encouraging notes on little cards to be given to each pitcher at the end of the night.

"These appreciation cards were like little hugs."

The remaining funds were distributed to Stubborn Roots and Ageing Without Children, each receiving £75.

Appreciation cards were handed out (Image: Supplied) York Together, the organisers of the event, were thrilled with the outcome.

Anjelica Finnegan, development lead for York Together, said: "We have been genuinely moved by the warmth and encouragement in the room on the night.

"The atmosphere was full of care and solidarity, and we want to thank everyone who came to cheer our pitchers on and make them feel seen, supported, and appreciated.

"It’s rare to find a space where people come together like this: to eat, to listen, and to collectively decide what kind of future they want for their city—so we’re hoping we can host more STEW events in the future."