The largest emergency food agency in Epping Forest is privileged to be able to support so many families through these challenging times, not only with food, clothes and essentials but also free school supplies.

3Food4U has given out more than 200 backpacks full of stationery to children in Epping Forest district.

The charity has again thanked its volunteers who work around the clock to keep its service going seven days a week and particularly young volunteer Isabelle Kearin who organised the supplies and their distribution to the families.

Epping Forest Guardian:

The organisation is proud of its record of supporting vulnerable people, including those from Ukraine and other war-torn nations.

Tatiana, who recently arrived from Ukraine, said: “This was the first time I ever used any emergency food and I was surprised to see such great choice of food. My daughter especially loved the posh cakes! This was a special treat for us. This also gave us an opportunity to try new foods. I liked the friendly atmosphere and will come again. This is a much need reassurance for us, that we will never be hungry. My daughter was so excited to get the backpack and stationery.”

Olha, also recently arrived from Ukrainian with her children, said: “I had one food box from another foodbank before. It was helpful but I did not know what to do with some tins as I don’t read/understand English but also my children are not used to this food. It is so good to have a choice and take only what our family will eat. Our children were so happy with the treats: chocolate yoghurt, special cereals and a big chocolate cake. We feel blessed to have this support and would like to thank everyone who is helping at 3Food4U - you are amazing!”

Epping Forest Guardian:

Iryna, also from Ukraine, said: “I come to the hub in Loughton every week with a few friends. I don’t know how we would survive without this support. We see volunteers always try to communicate with us, although it’s not easy as we don’t speak English yet. No one is asking why we need food and people are always smiling there. It’s like going shopping but without any cost. When I get flowers and a cake it makes me happy! This brightens my day. Thank you and God bless you all for inviting us and sharing your food with us.”

3Food4U is offering free groceries, clothes and essentials without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it. We always appreciate new volunteers to help deliver our vital service.

The charity has a fundraising page at www.stewardship.org.uk/partners/20356308 and its 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.