OOR Wee Cafe in Kelty has won a Tackling Poverty Award at the Fife Voluntary Action Awards.

It was born out of a community need when a group of individuals approached Fife Council for support.

They wanted to create an accessible and affordable cafe, a welcoming space where residents could meet, enjoy home-cooked healthy food and support each other, while also trying to eliminate food wastage.

Maura Haddow, a volunteer from Oor Wee Cafe, said: "We are over the moon to receive this award.

"It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and the support from the Kelty community.

"Our mission has always been to provide a safe, inclusive space for everyone, and this recognition is truly heartwarming. "I'd would like to thank Fife Council and Kelty Community Centre specifically for their ongoing support and successful partnership work."

The cafe in Kelty has been open since August 2018. The cafe in Kelty has been open since August 2018. (Image: Fife Council)

Since its opening in August 2018, Oor Wee Cafe has not only provided healthy meals suitable for vegetarians and those with gluten intolerance but has also become a vital social hub.

On average, 50 people attend every week and agencies such as Citizens Advice, Fife Law Centre, Social Security Scotland, Fife Voluntary Action have held clinics there.

Anne-Marie Vance, Cowdenbeath area community manager, added: "Oor Wee Café has been working with Krista, a community education worker focused on supporting community food projects in the Cowdenbeath area.

"They have embraced small changes that have made a big impact, including reviewing finances to ensure the best value for money, providing welfare support at every session to ensure attendees access all entitled benefits, introducing a membership model, and offering regular support and training for volunteers.

"Oor Wee Cafe is a shining example of community spirit and resilience.

"It’s incredible to see how the cafe has brought people together, provided essential support, and made a real difference in tackling poverty and social isolation in Kelty.

"Congratulations to everyone involved!"