About Foodcycle
Foodcycle: Nourishing Communities with Delicious Meals and Great Conversation
Foodcycle is a non-profit organization that aims to reduce food waste while nourishing the hungry and lonely in our communities. Every week, Foodcycle volunteers collect surplus food from local supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes that would otherwise go to waste. They then use this food to prepare delicious meals for those who need it most.
The idea behind Foodcycle is simple yet powerful: to create a community where everyone has access to healthy and nutritious meals, regardless of their financial situation or social status. By using surplus food that would otherwise be thrown away, Foodcycle not only helps reduce food waste but also provides a sustainable solution to hunger.
Foodcycle was founded in 2009 by Kelvin Cheung, who was inspired by the concept of "food rescue" after volunteering at a similar organization in Australia. He saw an opportunity to bring this idea back home to the UK and started Foodcycle with just one project in East London.
Since then, Foodcycle has grown into a nationwide network of over 40 projects across the UK. Each project is run by local volunteers who are passionate about reducing food waste and tackling social isolation in their communities.
Foodcycle's impact goes beyond just providing meals for those in need. The organization also creates opportunities for people from all walks of life to come together over great conversation and delicious food. Volunteers are encouraged to sit down with guests during meal times, fostering connections between people who may not have had the chance to meet otherwise.
In addition, Foodcycle runs various training programs for volunteers on topics such as cooking skills, nutrition education, and community outreach. These programs not only help build skills but also provide opportunities for personal growth and development.
One of the unique aspects of Foodcycle is its focus on sustainability. The organization works closely with local businesses and farmers' markets to source fresh produce that might otherwise go unsold or be discarded due to imperfections. By using these "ugly" fruits and vegetables, Foodcycle is able to reduce food waste while also promoting sustainable agriculture.
Foodcycle's impact on the community is clear. In 2020 alone, the organization served over 50,000 meals to those in need and rescued over 100 tonnes of surplus food from going to waste. But the impact goes beyond just numbers – Foodcycle has created a sense of community and belonging for many who may have felt isolated or forgotten.
If you're interested in getting involved with Foodcycle, there are many ways to do so. You can volunteer at a local project, donate money or surplus food, or even start your own Foodcycle project in your community.
In conclusion, Foodcycle is an inspiring organization that is making a real difference in our communities. By reducing food waste and providing nutritious meals for those in need, they are tackling two important issues at once. But perhaps more importantly, they are creating connections between people and fostering a sense of community that is truly invaluable.