A Leytonstone-based community kitchen called The Farm will soon close if it does not receive support to continue running.
A lack of funding, volunteers and storage space for food means the hub is struggling to continue its mission of sending out over 200 meals a week.
The increase in people going out to work since pandemic restrictions were lifted has meant the kitchen has seen less volunteers on hand, who had previously sent out up to 500 meals weekly to those in need.
The non-profit company relies largely on donations and funding but has recently felt the ripple effects of Government cuts, and the “impact of rising costs of food and utilities.”
The weekly cost of meals, which are given to homeless individuals, families, and more recently a rise in middle-aged men, can come to well over £700 alone.
Founder Carol Crowe, known to the community as ‘Caz’ remarked the struggle to continue operating is in part due to a knock-on effect of the lack of funding received, an issue which began after Covid when the cost of living crisis kicked in.
She told the Standard: “We’ve previously had bits of funding from the council, and received a national lottery cost of living funding, but are now struggling without volunteers and space to expand. And we’re not fully funded by the council.
“At this moment in time all money that goes in goes out so we are always on the edge. Funding to secure a new premise is now our main goal. If we cannot establish new roots and afford that outlay then we are for sure to close. We need funding to continue with the project.”
They are seeking a new location so they have the space they need, and their lease with their current private landlord is not set to be renewed.
Waltham Forest Council is now said to be engaging with the hub to find a new premises. If it were forced to close it would be a massive blow to the kitchen staff and the people who rely on it.
To donate to the community kitchen, visit here: thefarmcommunitykitchen.com/donate
