October 8th, 2024.



Paula Woolven, known for founding Havens Community Hub and her spirited but catastrophic last-placed appearance on Channel 4’s hit show Come Dine With Me, has turned her culinary misadventures into a community initiative by opening the Havens Connections Cafe. Located at the Hillcrest Community Centre on Bay Vue Road, Newhaven, the cafe aims to bring people together over low-cost home-cooked meals and drinks.

Inspired by her journey on reality television, where she showcased her passion for food waste prevention, Paula and her Cafe Manager, Julia Dunstan, are committed to creating a welcoming space for all. The cafe also features a much-needed "pay it forward" scheme, allowing customers to contribute towards the cost of meals and refreshments for others.

“Everyone deserves access to good food and a warm environment,” Paula said. “Havens Connections Cafe is a place where we can all unite, support one another, and foster connections within our community. And the best bit? I can promise you I won't be cooking!”

Cafe Manager Julia said, "I'm delighted to be involved in this exciting new venture, where delicious, affordable meals meet the spirit of giving. Together, we can create a thriving hub of connection and support - and I won't let Paula anywhere near the kitchen!"

Havens Community Hub also runs the environmental multi-award-winning Havens Food Cooperative project, which rescues up to three tonnes of perishable produce each week, preventing landfill and greenhouse gases and feeding hundreds of community residents. The Food Cooperative was a finalist in last weeks BBC Radio Sussex and Surrey 'Make A Difference' Awards in the green category.

To donate to the 'Pay-It-Forward' scheme, visit https://localgiving.org/fundraising/payitforwardcafe

Havens Connections Cafe
Email: havensconnectionscafe@gmail.com
Phone: 01273512376