A charity that has been a lifeline for many people during the pandemic is launching a new service to provide an opportunity for those with memory issues to socialise.

3Food4U is starting its monthly 3MemoryCafe4U service for anyone who would like to mix with other people, but particularly anyone with a memory issue and those who love and care for them.

The sessions are free and will be activity-based with singing, word games, puzzles, bingo and more with free light refreshments.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

The first session will take place from 10am to 12pm on Wednesday, October 20 at St James’ Church Hall, Ongar CM5 9EL, and then on the third Wednesday of each month.

Anyone interested in attending does not need to book in advance and further details are available by calling 01992 842642.

This service is in addition to the Loughton Memory Café on the first Friday of the month from 10am to 12pm at Loughton Club, 8 Station Road IG10 4NX.

One of 3Food4U’s youngest and most committed volunteers, 16-year-old Joe Gunn, is fundraising for the charity.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Joe Gunn is second from the left

Joe said: "Having had the pleasure of volunteering with the 3Food4U community surplus hub, I am proud of the way they help people in need of food and household essentials, whilst treating them with respect and dignity.

“They continue to need support and donations in order to carry on their essential services to our community, so I have been training hard for the Para’s 10 (a military endurance race of 10 miles carrying 35lbs).

“Please wish me luck, and if you can spare a donation however small, it would be much appreciated!"

Joe has a fundraising page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/joes-fundraiser-for-3food4u

The charity’s community surplus hubs are open as follows:

Monday: Waltham Abbbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm

Tuesday: Loughton – Loughton Club, 8, Station Road - 11.30am to 1pm

Wednesday: Chigwell Row – All Saints Church Hall, Romford Road - 5pm to 6.30pm

Thursday: Ongar – Zinc Arts Centre, High Street - 1pm to 2.30pm

Friday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm

The Rotary Club of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill and Chigwell is continuing to meet on Zoom on Thursdays at 7pm.

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