Emdad Rahman
HUMDUM UK has just completed a mass distribution of hundreds of meals in partnership with Barings and Thomas Franks Ltd. As part of an East London-wide distribution, Humdum were provided with tasty ready-cooked meals.
Katsu Chicken, Persian Lentil with Cauliflower Stew, and Chicken Chasseur & Rice were shared with local homeless people, the elderly and visitors to the foodbank. Packs have also been made available to the Barking & Dagenham Food Network (BD Food Hub) and religious institutions to share among their visitors and clients.
Humdum was started by Chair Kishwar Bhola after she noticed a gap in foodbank services. The veteran community campaigner introduced the project as a way of catering to the differing needs of clients who were facing hardship. Weekly tasks include sourcing fresh food; communicating with supermarkets and catering companies; and collecting, receiving and distributing Humdum parcels among a local food network including agencies and frontline volunteers.
Food parcels are distributed to those in need. The project is mainly run by local female volunteers who prepare delicious, hot food twice s week. These women have been empowered by Humdum to become active and find purpose in serving their neighbours through the power of food sharing.
Nighat Bhola from Humdum said, “Any success we have is based on our relentless determination to serve our neighbourhood and the team are so effective in what they do that we have received wide acclaim. Kishwar Bhola has nurtured a team of committed local people and her foresight has enabled many of our volunteers to blossom. We’re just pleased to play a role in a Borough rich with diversity. Well done to all those who strive to make life better for everyone.”
●Read more stories about Humdum Foodbank: Humdum Foodbank
●Read more about it: Foodbank coalition responds to community needs Spot on: Island Network reaches 33k food parcels!
●Watch East London’s weekly news magazine programme, live at 10pm every Tuesday and on demand all week: The Tuesday Show