More than 90 families have already been supported following the launch of a new community hub in Waltham Abbey.

Established at Waltham Abbey Town Hall, the service was launched on June 29 to help those in need and at the end of the first week more than 200 people had already been supported thanks to donations to 3food4u.org

The organisation was the brainchild of Pesh Kapasiawala, who said “It was an amazing day, launching something unique and vital. I'm very proud that the vision I had is now a reality.

“Our ethos is to provide a non-assessment and non-referral service of basic groceries and essential items, and we smashed that. If people are brave enough to ask for help, we will support them.

“We want the whole process to be as natural as possible. We will lay out the food/essentials/clothing and people will be given a basket and they will be able to choose what they like, within reason/quantities.

“Huge thanks to all our volunteers, without whom this wouldn't be possible. So many individuals have worked tirelessly to make this a success.”

3food4u.org needs all kinds of donations of food and essential household items, but not fresh produce. These can be left at Waltham Abbey Town Hall or collection can be arranged by calling 01992 842642, while this is the fundraising page.

The initiative is sponsored by Diamond Treats and is being run in partnership with Voluntary Action Epping Forest, the Rotary Club of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill and Chigwell, Epping Forest District Council, The Hornbeam Centre and Café, Tesco, Waltham Abbey Town Council, GAIL’s Bakery, Compassion London and Lions Club of Seven Kings.

The Rotary Club of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill and Chigwell is meeting on Zoom on Thursdays at 6pm during the Covid-19 lockdown.

If you would like to attend, contact Pesh Kapasiawala on 020 8500 2527, 07973 166940 or email pesh@londonresidential.co.uk