The food, which would normally have been sold in London Met’s canteens and catering outlets, will be distributed to vulnerable people and organisations in need by Islington Council.
Date: 28 April 2020
London Met is helping its local community during the COVID-19 crisis, through a donation of its food stocks to Islington Council.
The food, which would normally have been sold in London Met’s canteens and catering outlets, will be distributed to vulnerable people and organisations in need around the Borough of Islington. In total, the amount donated is worth around £14,000.
Andy Marshall, Commercial Business Manager at London Met, played a key role in facilitating the donation. He said: “We’re so pleased to be able to support our local community and share food with those who need it around Islington. In times of crisis, it’s important that we come together and help each other.”
The stock list was put together by London Met's catering partner, Chartwells, which played an important part in enabling the Council's distribution of the food.
Sophie Cloutterbuck, Director of London Engagement at the University added: “We’re delighted to play our part in supporting Islington Council’s response to to the COVID-19 crisis, along with a number of other local organisations. The Council is well placed to identify those in the community who will benefit most from this donation, and to ensure that they receive the support they need during this time.”
Cllr Una O’Halloran, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Community Development said: “The current coronavirus crisis is the greatest public health crisis this country has seen for generations, and this has exacerbated the many challenges faced by vulnerable members of our community, and by people living in poverty. The council is working hard with our community partners to make sure that everyone in the borough who needs help gets it, and donations like this one from the London Met are crucial in supporting that effort.
“I am not surprised how the communities are working with the council as we have built over the years very strong partnerships, looking out for each other and working together ─ we are about a fairer Islington. We continuously work to make the borough a place where nobody should live in poverty.”
In addition to providing a valuable resource for the people of Islington, the donation corresponds with London Met’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices in its services, by ensuring stocks of food are not wasted while the University’s buildings are closed.
This donation is just one of the ways in which London Met’s staff, students and alumni are contributing to the wider community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find out more about the different initiatives taking place, including donations of lab equipment, volunteering work, and creative projects on our community response page.
