Sufra

What is Sufra NW London

Sufra is a Community Food Bank based in North London which aims to support disadvantaged families suffering food poverty in the local area. The charity’s objective as outlined by its governing document is outlined below:

“The relief of poverty and economic disadvantage among persons who are in a condition of need, hardship or distress in particular within the London boroughs of Brent, Harrow and Ealing and in other parts of the United Kingdom, by providing such persons with goods and services which they could not otherwise afford through lack of means.”

The food bank launched in October 2013 and has since operated with twice weekly open food bank sessions and provides our guests with enough food to feed theor family 3 meals a day for a minimum of 5 days. Each parcel size is proportionate to the size of the family and is tailor made to reflect the cultural and faith sensitivities of the guests.

Sufra NW London also extends to more than providing guests with food, but offers a number of additional services that has been designed to reflect the needs of local users living in poverty.

• Food Academy
  Accredited learning in basic cookery for young people for a sustainable service.

• Welfare Surgeries
  Drop in advice services providing sign posting, advocacy, access to vocational education, volunteering and employment opportunities and financial literacy training.

• Subsidised Vegetable Box Scheme
  A food co-op encouraging low-income families to eat fresh fruit and vegetables at affordable prices.

• Kitchen
  Aiming to launch a hot food service offering freshly cooked healthy meals and support on medical/welfare issues.

• Food Sustainability Project

Local campaigning on ethical and environmental implications of food wastage.

What is IUS’s Role?

IUS is one of the founding members of Sufra NW London which is set up as an independent charity. IUS is one of four of the partner organisations who are responsible for the core funding of the charity. Representation is made through an appointed trustee who is designated to be on the organisation’s Board of Trustees. IUS has joint ownership of the strategic direction of the project and supports the sustainability of the Sufra.