Since 2022, Hospitable Environment has been bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together for a community meal and conversations around the central question “what does it take to make a hospitable environment?”.
As they celebrated their second birthday with a legendary Pineapple Party last Week, LDFP coordinator Nancy reflects on two years of Soup and Social as a keystone of the Good Food Movement in Newhaven – building more vibrant, diverse and joyful communities through food.
On a drizzly evening on Thursday 22nd February, the Hillcrest Centre was anything but downcast, as the Pineapple Party got into full swing. There was a dance workshop with BamBam Dance Fitness that got even the shyest of feet tapping, hand massages courtesy of A Touch of Gentleness CIC and a delicious bowl of Tuscan Soup. Not to mention the trademark pineapple upside down cake.
This event sums up the welcoming, inclusive and joyful atmosphere that Soup and Social has championed. Over two years, Hospitable Environment has collaborated with numerous local organisations, from Creative Newhaven to the local Anti-Racist Alliance to the Ukrainian Hub to Greenhavens, each infusing the Soup and Social with a different (but always delicious) flavour.
“I rate this 1,000,000 out of 10. I want to come back tomorrow.” – 8yr old participant
This includes two festive Soup and Socials, providing a sit-down meal for up to 70 Newhaven residents. Last year’s Very Hospitable Christmas on Christmas Day featured food purchased from local suppliers, as well as making use of surplus from the Havens Cooperative, demonstrating Hospitable Environment’s commitment to supporting the local community and environment.
“There needs to be more things like this where we can make art & come together to celebrate where we live. It makes me feel proud about Newhaven.” – 10yr old participant
Hospitable Environment are an exemplary project for bringing people of
different backgrounds and ages together through the connecting power of food.
Lewes District Food Partnership wishes Lizzie, Ellie, Sam and the rest of the Hospitable Environment team a very happy second birthday for their Soup and Social events. We can’t wait to see where the project develops next.
For more information and to check out upcoming events, visit Hospitable Environment


