FoodCycle, a community dining charity, has launched an urgent appeal for volunteers across Yorkshire to help feed hungry people and prevent surplus food from going to waste this summer. The charity needs local helpers to keep its free weekly three-course meals running smoothly during July and August.
Volunteer roles needed
The group requires keen cooks, servers, and washers-uppers to cover a seasonal shortage as regular helpers take summer holidays. Anyone aged 18 or older can sign up, and no prior kitchen experience is necessary.
Ian White, 61, a former pub landlord from Sheffield, now volunteers at two weekly meal projects after attending as a guest three years ago. He says the free sessions saved his life after he suffered from loneliness and depression.
Finding hope through community
White struggled to feed himself after separating from his wife and living alone. He has now given more than 136 hours of his time to support the charity after the weekly meals helped him recover his mental health.
"About three years ago, my wife and I separated, and I wasn’t feeding myself properly, and I was told about the FoodCycle meal. I was a bit nervous at first, because there were lots of people I didn't know, and I'm not a confident eater in front of strangers, but I got used to it, and now I'll eat anywhere," White said.
The grandfather found that regular social interaction had a profound impact on his mental health. "I wanted to help because of what they've given to me over the years, and that's why I became a volunteer," he added.
Health and happiness benefits
The meals have also helped White manage his diabetes, a condition that affects blood sugar levels. He noticed his blood sugar readings fell after eating the nutritious dishes prepared by the kitchen team.
Last year, the organisation saved more than 90 tonnes of surplus food from going to waste across the region. Mark Game, chief executive of FoodCycle, said: "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."
The team hopes to fill thousands of slots nationwide to ensure these vital hubs remain open. "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," Game added.
Where to find a free meal
Anyone over 18 can register to volunteer, and full training is provided for all roles. To sign up or find your nearest project, visit www.foodcycle.org.uk.
Locations include: Sheffield Primrose Hill (Tuesdays 6.30pm at The Vine, St Bart’s, Primrose Hill, Sheffield, S6 2UW); Sheffield Broomhall (Wednesdays 12.30pm at Broomhall Centre, Broomspring Lane, Sheffield, S10 2FD); Bradford (Mondays 6.30pm at Deaf Centre, 25 Hallfield Road, Bradford, BD1 3RP); Huddersfield Aspley (Mondays 6.30pm at St Joseph's Catholic Church, 19 Somerset Road, Aspley, Huddersfield, HD5 9AU); Leeds Seacroft (Tuesdays 6.30pm at Chapel FM Arts Centre, York Road, Leeds, LS14 6JB); Leeds Beeston & Holbeck (Wednesdays 6.30pm at St Luke's Church, Malvern Road, Holbeck, Leeds, LS11 8PD); Leeds Harehills (Thursdays 6.30pm at St Aidan's Church, Roundhay Road, Leeds, LS8 5QD); Hull Marfleet (Thursdays 6.30pm at Marfleet Community Centre, rear of 22-24 Swanfield Road, Hull, HU9 4PX).
