THE ONE LOVE PROJECT
Despite the fact that many of the organisations we visit and assist have very similar goals – giving surplus and nutritional food to those most in need – they have all different setups and offerings established in order to achieve this. The One Love Project in Southend is no exception and we recently paid them a visit to find out exactly what they do and how we might be able to help out.
On a roasting hot day we arrived to find the team in full swing setting up for the Thursday food bank sessions although what was on offer was more than that. Firstly the food bank itself had a large selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, salads and bread as well as a supply of ambient goods. In addition to the food they also run a market on the same day including clothes – shoes, shirts, dresses, trousers – children’s toys and many other items available for a minimal spend which assists in the running costs of the operation. Free teas, coffees and drinks are available too from the kiosk.
It is a non-referral operation and anyone is welcome. Minimal information is taken although the most important being the size of the family they are getting food for. Once the service started the guests came in an orderly manner and were able to decide exactly what food they wanted which was then dropped into their bags by the attentive volunteers. All ran very smoothly and there was time for a quick break before the second session for families, with children, to select their food.
A tour of the premises, very generously donated by a local construction company, revealed a whole heap of other amenities and facilities on offer for the guests at the other sessions they provide during the week. Fridges and freezers to store donated goods, chefs beavering away in the kitchen making food for the evening meal sessions they run – as always having to think on their toes with the differing selection of food available to conjure up healthy food – and, a first for us, showers available for people to use with hot water and fresh towels as well as laundry machines that can wash and dry clothes during the guests stay.
The evening sessions not only provide a hot meal but guests can also take food away when they go as well as toiletries warm clothes and even sleeping bags. Many, but not all, of the guests are sleeping rough, couch surfing or living in accommodation with very limited facilities.
There is a counselling suite for guests concerned about their physical and mental health with sound advice from healthcare and addiction specialists.
It was very evident that in many ways the food, although a hugely important element, acts as an enticing force and once on the premises the other services kick in to help with tackling deeper rooted problems and offering essential advice that might help people move away from current circumstances or certainly give them the opportunities to do so.
A really impressive organisation and our huge thanks to Nicky and the team for such an informative and rewarding visit. We look forward to coming back and assisting again.
Find out more about them and how you can assist : The One Love Project
