Culinary pop-up raises hundreds for Carrick Connect

Local chef Chris Kelly hosted 'The Bucky Gelder' at Weaver's Cafe, Ballycarry on Saturday, July 25.

The fundraiser, which saw Chris create a five course tasting menu for 20 people, generated £450 for Carrick Connect.

The not-for-profit organisation works with young people from the ages of 11 to 25 years, offering mentoring services alongside a number of outreach programmes.

The pop-up, part of wider project aimed at raising awareness of mental health issues, was originally due to take place in May.

However, the ongoing public health situation meant the event had to be postponed.

Tracey McNickle, project coordinator with Carrick Connect said: "It was such a thoughtful gesture from Chris to arrange this fundraiser for us especially at this time. We are so very thankful for him and for all who supported his fundraiser at Weaver's Cafe.

"We did not expect such a great amount, and with other fundraisers having to be cancelled this is a blessing which will be put to good use towards our mentoring programme and mental health resources.

"Carrick Connect has remained open throughout the pandemic with online/phone call mentoring, support lines, online groups and making up and delivery of well-being packs to the public. This is still continuing and we are still in receipt of Covid funding which we are planning at present.

"We wish to extend our sincere thanks to Chris for his kindness and for his support to Carrick Connect."