A community project helping to support vulnerable people during the pandemic continued its expansion last week with the opening of its latest hub in Ongar.

Founder of 3Food4U Pesh Kapasiawala said the charity continues to be humbled by the support it is receiving from the community, volunteers and donors and from the host of the Ongar hub, Zinc Arts Centre. It made it one of the project’s busiest opening days.

The hub was visited by Epping Forest District Councillor Jaymey McIvor, who has been a big supporter and advocate of our vital charity from the beginning.

He said: “I was so pleased to join the amazing 3Food4U project at their launch in Ongar. Thank you so much to all of the volunteers and generosity of our community for helping to make it happen.

Sonia Cakebread, manager at Zinc Arts Centre, and Cllr Jaymey McIvor

Sonia Cakebread, manager at Zinc Arts Centre, and Cllr Jaymey McIvor

“The social distancing measures in place were so impressive and many people commented on how safe and comfortable they felt. It was lovely to see so many familiar faces from North Weald as well as Ongar.

“Anyone can fall on hard times at any time. This community project makes everyone feel welcome. Thank you to everyone who made today possible. Especially the local volunteers, sponsoring local businesses and the team at Zinc. I can’t wait to see this project blossom in Ongar and across other communities.”

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

The club has two guest speakers confirmed fort this month, Alice Melvin from Epping Forest Climate Action tonight and on Thursday, February 11 there will be a special event evening with Master of Mirth Mike Storr.

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

The club’s website is www.loughtonrotary.org.uk and they have a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/rotarylbc