Past Master, Julia Sibley MBE from the Worshipful Company of Innholders tells us about her visit to City Harvest, Acton.
Above: Julia of the Worshipful Company of Innholders stands with Livery Food Initiative van, driver, Lasalle, and a volunteer nun from St. Mary & Michael church who was helping cook meals at Acton Homeless Concern.
Below: Julia in the depot, with City Harvest driver & ambassador, Carl Gentles.
Having supported the Livery Food Initiative van, Julia, representing the Worshipful Company of Innholders, visited City Harvest’s Acton depot to learn more about how the charity manages, receives and delivers food for over 1.2 million meals a month.
“I was very impressed by the premises: from the very welcoming, clean and tidy reception, to the warehouse where it all happens.
The staff’s positivity, professionalism, and keenness to be there, helping, was palpable. Operations Manager, Dave, was a fab guide, giving me great insight into the whole operation at HQ.”
Livery Food Initiative Van: delivering impact across London
“Fiona was the chief tour guide and was brilliant! We met Lasalle who let us join him on the Livery van route for the morning. Lasalle is such a charming man, and a great ambassador for City Harvest.
At the charities, I was struck by how grateful everyone was and how ‘life-changing’ the food we delivered is. Literally, every last leaf/flake/portion of the food provided will be cooked to make wholesome, substantial meals for those who sadly are not able to provide for themselves.”
“I was particularly interested in the school we delivered to. The catering manager was turning the school hall into a temporary food bank. This is so parents are able to access nutritious food for their families during the school half term. I was humbled & energised in equal proportion.”
Holiday hunger is a very real issue for our charities. With the rising cost of living, when the bills are paid, there is little, if anything, left for food.
Increasing levels of child obesity, malnutrition and poor gut health are a direct result of only being able to afford the cheapest, high-calorie food. City Harvest aims to provide nutritious food to give children and families the opportunity to thrive, not simply survive.
“Parents struggle to feed their families and if we close the food bank at the school – many of these people would not have any food.” John Perryn School catering manager.
Livery Food Initiative
Read how and why the Livery Food Initiative was set up, who has supported & how you can get involved.
