Foodbank Celebrates Volunteers

Emdad Rahman

The contributions of volunteers are vital in the running of grassroots projects and a Dagenham foodbank is no exception.

The Darul Ummah Goresbrook Food Club has been running throughout the calendar year and serving local neighbours with weekly food parcels.

During the winter programme the husband and wife team who run operations were recognised as individuals who have been particularly inspirational in supporting local people facing hardship.

DUG Food Club has been running since May 2023, supporting up to 50 households a week and providing emergency food parcels when requested.

Every week sees new members register and over 850 food parcels have been shared this year alone. Visitors are mostly people who are struggling financially due to personal debts and also the cost of living crisis. Volunteers have also been supporting a number of people who are disabled, elderly, domestic violence victims, and ethnic minorities.

Food Club users are also referred to local community hubs and online resources if they require housing or benefit advice.

“We enjoy running the Food Club and find it very rewarding. We feel privileged to have the opportunity to help our local community,” said Sana – an ever present since the project was launched.

On behalf of the Food Club Zoinul Abidin BEM commented, “Volunteers are the heartbeat of our close knit community and we would like to thank two special people who have shown marvellous commitment to ensure the smooth running of this important service.”

People needing a little support can register with the Food Club, Saturdays at 2om – DUG Food Club, 36 Maplestead Road RM9 4XR.