Charity supporting pandemic-hit families in Southwark through Ramadan
By Lauren Russell
A small volunteer-led charity is offering free meals through every day of Ramadan to support young people who have suffered throughout the Covid pandemic.
The Nations Africa Centre (NAC) based in Southwark, is once again running The Big Dinner project from April 12th to May 12th 2021.
The project first took place in 2013 and this year The NAC is in partnership with the Feltham Hira to cook and serve free meals every single day to residents of Hounslow, London.
The centre hopes to serve 400 meals a day to young people particularly affected by the last year.
They want to create an atmosphere of involvement, and create a stepping stone for people to get back on their feet and move forward with dignity and respect.
Everyone is encouraged to either volunteer, donate food and funds or simply go along to try some tasty dishes.
Chair of the NAC Linda Benkerrache said: “NAC has always believed in the power of the youth.
“During these difficult times, we believe that they could use our support and some extra motivation.
“We want to give them a space to evolve, while we accompany them – be it with a warm dinner, a counselling session, a communication workshop, or a place to get groceries at a price they can afford.”
Along with receiving a free hot meal, during this period at the same venue, you will also be able to access NAC’s mobile Contribution Food Market.
The food market allows you to pick up food supplies and groceries at a price that is chosen by you.
The Big Dinner project 2021 has already cooked and served over 3000 meals.
Spokesperson for the charity Gaya Rajarathinam said that they believe in the power of food as a healing tool to bring people together, and this event invites everyone to join in attempting to put that into action.
Meals will be distributed from 5pm til 7pm every evening for a month at The Bell Public Car Park, 2 Bell Road, Hounslow, London, TW3 3NN.
More more information contact: admin@nationsafricacentre.com, using ‘The Big Dinner Project’ in the subject line or 07593 819821 | 03330509037.
Pictured: Badis Kolli and Zahreddine Mansouri with customers