City Harvest presents “The Office”, our very own series spotlighting the team behind our food rescue mission. Every day brings the very real trials, tribulations and triumphs of working at London’s original food redistribution charity. No day is the same, and rarely without beautiful encounters with our London network of community partners, and providing sustainable solutions to business food waste, and food poverty.
The Office: Season 1, Episode 8: Asher
City Harvest drivers’ office is on the streets of London, where they’re delivering vital free food to 130,000 people across London, feeding people facing food poverty. City Harvest driver Ash is based out of City Harvest’s west London site in Acton and is on the road daily delivering much-needed food to communities across London in need.
“It could happen to any of us”
More Than Just a Job
For Ash, being a City Harvest driver is more than just a job; it’s a “blessing”. He understands the impact on London communities, where many are “literally one paycheck away from having nothing.” He talks about the hardships he’s personally gone through and explains the extend of the issue , often the cause of food insecurity.
The Reward of Gratitude
‘It’s satisfying’ Ash finds immense reward in what he does daily. The charities, the mission, the people. People express how difficult their situation would be without City Harvest. Knowing he’s making a tangible difference is a powerful motivator: “I’m really making a difference to other people’s lives, which is great.”
For this episode we visited Mary Smith’s pantry, where people can enjoy a warm meal and conversation without judgement: “Just a group of people collectively trying to help each other.” The demand for City Harvest’s services is constantly growing, especially during school holidays, says Lord Mike ‘Operations Manager’
The Toughest Part
The most challenging part for Ash is having to say “no” when resources are limited. As City Harvest relies on donations, they can’t always meet every charity’s full needs: “Seeing people’s faces and having to tell them, look, you know what? I don’t have that today” is difficult.
Passions Outside of Work
Outside of work, Ash is a family man who enjoys spending time with his son and nieces. He also enjoys reading, football, and has a newfound appreciation for classical music to unwind to.
Ash’s playful nature makes him a hit with the community partners he delivers to.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Ash’s story is just one example of the incredible people who make City Harvest possible. We are immensely grateful for his hard work and dedication.
If you’re inspired by Ash’s story and want to help us continue delivering hope and nourishment to communities in London, please consider donating or volunteering. Together, we can make a difference.
UK Content Award Winner: City Harvest’s ‘The Office’
City Harvest bagged the award for Best Content Series for The Office. Learn more here.
Judges Comments: “This content series was truly refreshing and creative, especially given the limited budget they had. They acheived impressive results, and demonstrated a deep strategic approach to accomplish their goals.”
Your support means a lot
Without the help of our incredible supporters, our drivers would not be able to do what they do best: deliver free food and hope to over 123,000 Londoners every week. We appreciate any donations to keep our vans rolling and Londoners fed.
