For 11 years, the Bilgic family has been transforming their restaurant into a haven of solidarity, serving over 200 free meals and bringing smiles to those in need.
While many enjoy the warmth of their homes, in Shrewsbury there is a beating heart of generosity that never stops beating: that of Fred Bilgic and his bar, The Ploughboy. This year, as has been the case for over a decade, the doors were thrown open to welcome anyone who would have had to face December 25 alone.
A banquet for the community
This is not just a simple snack, but a real holiday lunch with turkey, beef, and chicken. The Bilgics' mission was more than ambitious:
- 200 people were served among the bar's guests.
- Home and street deliveries were made to the city's homeless.
- Gifts were given to everyone, so that no one was left empty-handed.
A tradition close to the heart
The idea came from Fred's wife and, over time, has become a real family mission. “Many people are lonely and we are happy to help them have a different kind of Christmas”, explains Fred to the BBC, demonstrating how, in his case, altruism comes before profit.
His children, Emrah and Milly, work side by side with their father. Milly enthusiastically recounts the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes: between preparing dozens of dinners and distributing gifts, the pace is fast, but the reward comes at the end of the day. “Towards the end, we all sit down with the volunteers to have dinner: it's a wonderful moment.”
More than a bar, a landmark
Emrah Bilgic describes his parents as the most selfless people he knows: “I'm happy that such a place exists in our community, a refuge where people know they can find warmth instead of remaining isolated.” In a fast-paced world, the Ploughboy reminds everyone that the true spirit of Christmas lies in “giving back” to those who need it most.
