The founder of Epping Forest’s largest emergency food agency has reflected on the “massive progress” it has made since it was established two years ago and praised volunteers for making a difference.

The celebrations for 3Food4U’s second anniversary began at the start of last week in Waltham Abbey when it received generous donations and support from Waltham Abbey Town Council and Mayor Cllr Jeane Lea, John Mortimer from the Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation, as well as the organisation’s tireless ambassador The Pearly Queen of Clapton, Teresa Watts.

The week-long celebrations continued on Friday with more support from the community including Chigwell School students and past Epping Forest District Council chairman Cllr Richard Bassett.

3Food4U were also visited for BBC Essex after getting to the finals of the Make a Difference Awards for which the winners will be announced on September 8.

Epping Forest Guardian:

3Food4U volunteers supported by Chigwell School students

At the ceremony founder and chair of trustees Pesh Kapasiawala said: “Hello everyone, thank you so much for being on this incredible journey. It's been two years of massive progress from just a vision to being the largest emergency food agency in Epping Forest District, Essex and North London.

“It certainly hasn't been easy, but we've stuck to our ethos and principals. It has been an honour to meet so many likeminded volunteers, thank you for all your tireless support. We are an amazing team; you all make a difference.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

3Food4u volunteers with Sue Bassett and Cllr Richard Bassett, past chair of EFDC

Teresa Watts said: “Well done Pesh to you and all your lovely volunteers for changing the lives of all the service users that could not thank you all enough.”

3Food4U offers free groceries, clothes and essentials without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it, treating and supporting people humanely with dignity and respect.

The organisation always appreciate new volunteers to help deliver its vital service and it has a fundraising page at www.stewardship.org.uk/partners/20356308

3Food4U’s community surplus hubs are open as follows:

  • Monday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm
  • Tuesday: Loughton – Loughton Club, 8, Station Road - 11.30am to 1pm
  • Wednesday: Chigwell Row – All Saints Church Hall, Romford Road - 5pm to 6.30pm
  • Thursday: Ongar – Zinc Arts Centre, High Street - 1pm to 2.30pm
  • Friday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm

For further details, visit 3food4u.org, email info.3food4u@gmail.com or call 01992 842642.