Family welcomes in homeless and needy

Tomorrow Sharon McNulty and her daughters will be serving free breakfasts and lunches at Grilled and Filtered to people who might otherwise go hungry.

They will also be giving out gifts donated by well-wishers, including winter coats and warm clothing.

The family opened the café in Dewsbury last Christmas when Sharon’s youngest daughter, Grace, suggested they do something special in memory of her dad.

Craig McNulty, 38, died in August 2012 after he fell while pruning a tree.

Sharon said: “We had a lovely day last year. I can’t tell anybody how special it was.

“It was very emotional and special to think we were doing something selfless.”

Sharon added: “We fed 27 people last year and this year we’re already expecting about 40. A lot of people have been calling in asking if they can still come and have dinner.

“They don’t have to be homeless to be in need. You might have a house, but no food in the fridge or no friends or family.”

The family, who live in Brontë Close, Staincliffe, were overwhelmed by the response last year when their generous act became national news.

Sharon, 47, said: “We had cards from all over the world.”

And this year others will join Sharon, 21-year-old Kirstie and Grace, 11, who picked up a Reporter Series Champion Children Award this month.

A family from Leeds has been growing vegetables and will be lending a hand.

Another customer has dropped in handmade soaps, and people working with the probation service have made up care packages.

Sharon said: “Grace has spent a lot of time getting presents. We’ve had some lovely coats donated.”

The cafe in Bradford Road will be open, xam-xpm.