Be Enriched, proudly announces an expansion of its Food Bus Project with a new stop at Tooting Leisure Centre.
Starting Today (2nd July), the Food Bus will be making weekly stops at Tooting Leisure Centre from 11 am to 3 pm, offering healthy, low-cost food to the local community.
Founded in 2013, Be Enriched is committed to creating a better and more connected food system that celebrates diversity and provides access to affordable, fresh, and healthy food.
Established in 2013, Be Enriched is committed to building a more sustainable and inclusive food system that celebrates diversity and provides access to fresh, healthy food for all. The Food Bus project, a key initiative supported by Feeding Britain, aims to alleviate hunger across the UK.
Launched in 2021, it features a double-decker bus and a smaller Food Float, serving as mobile greengrocers and community hubs in areas facing food insecurity or limited access to nutritious food.
"Our mission is to reduce food waste, combat social isolation, and ensure fair access to nutritious, fresh, healthy food for all," said Kemi Akinola, CEO of Be Enriched. "We are thrilled to partner with Tooting Leisure Centre to make affordable, healthy food more accessible our community."
The collaboration with Tooting Leisure Centre is part of a broader effort to enhance community wellbeing. Where individuals receiving Universal Credit can enjoy free off-peak adult gym and swim sessions, and young people aged 15 and under who receive free school meals can also swim for free, along with a parent or guardian.
Statistics from Be Enriched’s Food Bus customer survey in 2023 highlight the critical need for such initiatives:
57.14% of households with children are supported by Free School Meals.
45.5% of Food Bus members are supported by benefits.
45.5% of Food Bus members or someone in their household identify as having a disability.
27.3% of Food Bus members identify as unpaid carers.
One parent shared their experience, stating:
"The Food Bus provides a positive experience in areas where there may be little choice around access to cheap groceries and more importantly, support for children through activities and socialising."
"We're thrilled to expand our network and bring fresh produce closer to the community at a quarter of the price," said Simon Rai, The Food Bus Project Manager at Be Enriched. "Our Food Bus and Food Float not only provide access to healthy food options also create a strong sense of community and support."
In addition to its regular operations, families can look forward to hopping aboard the Food Bus Project this summer, which will host kids clubs during school holidays. These clubs will offer workshops, creative activities, and nutritious lunches to up to 30 children, all provided free of charge.
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