A charity that has become a vital lifeline to thousands of individuals and families has celebrated its first anniversary.
3food4u was founded by Pesh Kapasiawala on June 29, 2020 as an ethos and vision, but has grown rapidly to become the largest amergency food agency in Epping Forest district.
As well as people in the Epping Forest District Council area, it supports those in need in Harlow, Redbridge, Waltham Forest, Enfield and beyond every weekday, 52 weeks a year.
The charity’s celebrations started with a visit by Cllr Richard Bassett, immediate past chair of Epping Forest District Council, and his partner Sue on June 28.
3food4u’s week-long celebrations at Waltham Abbey culminated with the presentation of a £5,000 cheque by John Mortimer, trustee at The Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation.
The organisation was also visited by the chair of Epping Forest District Council Cllr Helen Kane and by the mayor of Waltham Abbey Cllr Jodie Lucas.
John Mortimer, Pesh Kapasiawala, Cllr Jodie Lucas and Cllr Helen Kane
Cllr Kane said “It was a pleasure to represent the town alongside our mayor of Waltham Abbey. As the town ward councillor, I was involved in the start-up of this initiative.”
The charity has also received messages of congratulations from supporters.
Jacqueline Hammond said: “What a fantastic year of supporting local communities. Well done to everyone involved.”
Leanne Coburn said: “Well done everyone, such a great cause for our local community to have somewhere non-judgemental for those in need to go too.”
Loughton councillor Stephen Murray added: “A great journey in such a short time, with volunteer teams across the district. So pleased to be able to play a small part in the Loughton hub. Well done to everyone involved in this wonderful community project.”
Pesh Kapasiawala with chair of Epping Forest District Council Cllr Helen Kane
3food4u offers free groceries, clothes and essentials without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it, treating and supporting people humanely with dignity and respect.
The charity's community surplus hubs are open as follows:
Monday: Waltham Abbbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm
Tuesday: Loughton – Loughton Club, 8, Station Road - 11.30am to 1pm
Wednesday: Chigwell Row – All Saints Church Hall, Romford Road - 5pm to 6.30pm
Thursday: Ongar – Zinc Arts Centre, High Street - 1pm to 2.30pm
Friday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm
The Rotary Club of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill and Chigwell is continuing to meet on Zoom on Thursdays at 7pm.
If you would like to attend, contact Pesh on 020 8500 2527 / 07973 166940 or email pesh@londonresidential.co.uk.
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