Epping Forest’s largest emergency food agency are appealing for more donations as the demand for their services continues to grow.

3Food4U’s community hubs across the district are getting busier as the cost of living crisis mounts and is calling on people to ask their neighbours, contacts, schools, churches and other groups to organise regular donations, but particularly for Harvest Festival and Christmas.

The charity is running low on some basic essentials but all long-life food is welcome including long life milk, tinned fish, meat and veg, soup, cooking sauces, rice, pasta, custard, rice pudding, biscuits, coffee and tea and toiletries.

Donations can be dropped off at any of 3Food4U’s hubs, Balgores Estate Agents Loughton / Ongar or call 01992 842642 to arrange collection.

Here are some examples of the feedback 3Food4U gets from its clients.

Carol from Loughton said: “I wish to thank all of you, me and my partner could not survive as we’re on benefits and this service has been a life saver. THANK YOU.”

Kirsty from Ongar said: “Always so polite and very helpful. Never made to feel ashamed.”

Epping Forest Guardian: Jim from Waltham AbbeyJim from Waltham Abbey (Image: 3Food4U)

Jim from Waltham Abbey said “Thank you to all the volunteers for their support and kindness. Always greeted with a smile and warm welcome. Very much appreciate everything received, would not be able to manage without the food received.”

Len from Epping said: “Excellent service. Very much appreciated. Didn’t feel like begging like sometimes it feels.”

Nathan from Chigwell said: “Thank you for being here during times of trouble. Thank you again God bless.”

3Food4U is offering free groceries, clothes and essentials without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it.

  • 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.