Sam Goodwin, a 27-year-old volunteer with cerebral palsy and autism, has written a heartfelt poem about his passion for washing pots to support FoodCycle, a charity that transforms surplus food into free community meals. Goodwin travels across the country to wash dishes at various FoodCycle projects, and his poem highlights the joy and purpose he finds in this role.
Charity Appeals for Summer Volunteers
FoodCycle is now appealing for more helpers to step forward as volunteer numbers naturally decline during the school holiday period. The national organization needs to fill more than 8,500 volunteer slots across England and Wales to ensure its free weekly dining services continue operating. Last year, the charity's regional venues served nearly 20,000 meals to local residents while saving almost 59 tonnes of food from landfill.
Sam's Personal Journey
Sam Goodwin explained: “FoodCycle has been brilliant in terms of giving me an opportunity to learn how my autism works in the real world.” He continued: “When you’re pot washing, you can see that you have a pile of dishes to do, and afterwards the kitchen looks a lot cleaner and tidier than it did when you first walked in - and you know that that's going make a difference to the guests because that’s contributing to them getting a healthy meal.” He added: “I almost feel able bodied when I am volunteering. I feel like I can go to a session and my disabilities don't matter – that my disabilities don’t define me.” He concluded: “I would encourage anyone to have a go at volunteering with FoodCycle!”
Regional Manager Praises Hero Pot Washer
Holly Wright, regional manager for the East of England, said: “Sam is a hero pot washer! The washing up is a vital task to keep things running smoothly, and he’s a joy at every project he goes to.” She continued: “We have a few different roles people can get involved with at FoodCycle community meals - from cooking, to serving food and chatting with guests, delivering surplus food to our projects, or doing the washing up. We’d love for anyone who is interested to sign up via our website.”
Chief Executive Highlights Growing Need
Mark Game, charity chief executive, commented: “Too many people are struggling to afford the food they need, and too many are experiencing loneliness. That’s why FoodCycle’s community meals are more important than ever.” He added: “Every week our volunteers help create welcoming spaces where people can enjoy nourishing food and company, while ensuring good food doesn’t go to waste. We know these meals make a real difference to the guests who join us – but we need more help, as demand remains high all year round.” He continued: “This summer we need to fill more than 8,500 volunteer slots around England and Wales to keep our projects running. If you can spare a few hours we’d love you to join us and help make a difference in your local community.”
How to Get Involved
Anyone over 18 can sign up to help without prior kitchen experience, with full training provided for all roles. FoodCycle holds weekly sessions throughout the summer at multiple venues including Cambridge, Ipswich, Norwich, and Peterborough, offering free community meals. To find a local session or register as a volunteer, visit foodcycle.org.uk/area/east-of-england/.
