New Community Centre

The new 3Food4U Community Centre at 47 Highbridge Street Waltham Abbey EN9 1BD is available to frontline agencies, charities, and community groups for FREE to deliver health, wellbeing and educational activities/sessions for free or subsidised to the public. It has a large open space with folding tables/chairs for 50 people, small kitchen and disabled access toilet.
What's On
Our community surplus hubs offering free food, home essentials, clothes and toys to anyone who needs with.

Without assessment or referral.

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We’re very pleased to announce the launch of 3SocialMemoryCafe4U a new FREE monthly community service open to anyone who would like to socialise.
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We’re offering FREE NHS Health Checks, Blood Pressure and BMI checks to people who aren’t eligible for an NHS Health Check.
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We support people in the community and at work with a range of health, wellbeing and day-to-day needs.
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Job Club. We can support with: CVs, Application Forms, Interview Preparation, Basic Computer Skills and more.
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FREE online training courses to build confidence and ability to work with numbers in everyday practical situations.
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Over 2000 families
(4500 individuals)
supported per week


279,000 meals provided in 2023


18,910 people fed in 2023


2,350 tonnes of surplus food saved in 2023


56% increase
on the previous year

Treating people humanely with dignity and respect

Donate Now
iNews National press - read the article
Read about Michelle's experience
See what happened when Heart/LBC Radio came to see us!

We are community surplus hubs offering free food, home essentials, clothes, toys without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it.

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2,581
3Food4U

3Food4U

Community surplus hubs offering free food, home essentials, clothes, toys without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it. Treating people humanely with dignity and respect.

To donate visit our fundraising page
https://www.give.net/3food4u

3Food4U

3 days ago

3Food4U
Epping Forest Guardian @followers Rock Choir • Choirs led by Sally C ... See MoreSee Less

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3Food4U

2 weeks ago

3Food4U
Epping Forest Guardian Thanks toEpping Forest District Council , Essex Police - Epping Forest District , Waltham Abbey Town Council , Loughton Town Council , Ongar Town Council , Parish of High Ongar , Waltham Abbey Baptist Church , All Saints Church Chigwell Row , The National Lottery Community Fund , Essex County Council , Essex Association of Local Councils , Essex Community Foundation , Find Your Active - West Essex , Active Essex , Bondi Foundation, Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation amongst many others#foodforthought #ytloughton #loughtonmuums #foodbank #footssdbankdonations #essex #essexmums #northweald #food #freefoodfyorall #freefoodgiveaway#chigwellmums #foodban ... See MoreSee Less

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3Food4U

4 weeks ago

3Food4U
Third Sector Awards.It wasn't our time this year. It was a massive accomplishment just getting to the finals, 1000s of charities were nominated. I'm very proud of everyone involved with 3Food4U. What we have achieved and the recognition local, regional, and national is incredible in only 4 years. ... See MoreSee Less

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3Food4U

4 weeks ago

3Food4U
**About 3Food4U: A Lifeline for Essex and Beyond** In a world grappling with economic uncertainty, rising living costs, and widening inequality, grassroots organisations like 3Food4U shine as beacons of hope. Founded in 2020 by Pesh Kapasiawala, this Essex-based charity has swiftly become a lifeline for thousands of families struggling to make ends meet. Its mission is simple but profound: provide free food, clothing, and essentials to anyone in need—no questions asked. The organisation stands out for its emphasis on dignity, humanity, and inclusiveness, breaking the barriers that often prevent people from seeking help. ### A Response to Crisis 3Food4U was born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, when millions of people across the UK found themselves facing unprecedented challenges. For some, jobs disappeared overnight. For others, isolation and uncertainty took a significant toll. Pesh saw the growing need in his community and acted swiftly to fill the gap. By setting up surplus food hubs across Essex and parts of London, 3Food4U provided not only groceries but also essentials like clothing and school supplies to families in need. The model is refreshingly straightforward: surplus food that would otherwise go to waste is redistributed to those who need it most. This approach addresses both food insecurity and waste, making it a win-win for communities and the environment. Over 2,000 families benefit from this initiative weekly, receiving the help they need without the burden of assessments or referrals. By removing these barriers, 3Food4U ensures that aid is accessible to everyone, whether they are struggling for the first time or have been enduring hardships for years. ### More Than Just Food While food distribution remains the cornerstone of 3Food4U’s efforts, its impact extends far beyond that. Pesh and his team of over 350 volunteers are committed to tackling the deeper issues faced by vulnerable communities. One of their standout initiatives is the "3Social&WarmPlace4U" project, which provides safe, welcoming spaces where socially isolated individuals can gather, engage in activities, and form connections. From chair yoga to singing and dancing, these sessions offer much-needed relief from the loneliness many experience. For Pesh, the charity’s work is about more than just meeting physical needs. "It’s about treating people with dignity," he explains. "We want to make sure everyone feels valued and respected, no matter their circumstances." This ethos is reflected in the wide array of services 3Food4U offers. Beyond food distribution and social spaces, the charity provides job clubs that offer CV and interview advice, free school supplies for families, and even dementia-friendly memory cafes. ### The Human Impact The numbers alone are impressive: since its inception, 3Food4U has provided over 180,000 meals to more than 12,000 people and saved 1,500 tonnes of surplus food from going to waste. But the true impact of the charity can be seen in the individual lives it touches. For families struggling to put food on the table, the charity’s hubs have become a vital resource. Parents no longer have to choose between feeding their children and paying bills, and the stress that often comes with such decisions is alleviated. The organisation also steps up in times of heightened need. During the back-to-school season, for example, 3Food4U distributes free school supplies and uniforms, ensuring that children from low-income families can start the academic year without the worry of not having basic materials. ### A Vision for the Future As the cost-of-living crisis continues to deepen in the UK, the role of organisations like 3Food4U has never been more critical. The charity operates on a model of sustainability, relying on donations of non-perishable food items and the efforts of dedicated volunteers. Still Pesh acknowledges that the demand is growing. "We’re seeing more families come through our doors than ever before," he says. "The need is there, and we’re doing everything we can to meet it." Moving forward, 3Food4U aims to expand its reach, opening more hubs and launching new initiatives to support the community. Pesh is particularly focused on building partnerships with local governments, schools, and other organisations to ensure that as many people as possible can access the services they need. ### How to Get Involved For those looking to support 3Food4U, there are numerous ways to contribute. The charity welcomes donations of non-perishable food, clothing, and household essentials, which can be dropped off at any of their hub locations. Volunteering is another critical avenue of support; with over 350 volunteers already onboard, there is always room for more helping hands. In a personal letter to Pesh in Nov 2023, then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised his work, saying, "Your mission to treat others with dignity, humanity, and respect embodies the very best of service to others." This acknowledgment from the highest levels of government underscores the vital role that 3Food4U plays in the community, not just as a provider of necessities but as a symbol of hope and compassion. ### Conclusion At its core, 3Food4U represents the best of what a community can offer: kindness, support, and respect for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. As the challenges of our times continue to evolve, it is clear that this organisation will remain a vital part of the fabric of Essex and beyond, proving that when people come together, no one has to go without. Contact usCharity Number 1192310 Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: 07973 166940 Facebook: 3Food4U ... See MoreSee Less
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Our Hub Locations

 

Waltham Abbey

Monday & Friday 11:15am to 1:00pm

13 Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1ER

Loughton

Tuesday 11:15am to 1:00pm

Loughton Club, 8 Station Road, IG10 4NX

Tottenham SDA

Tuesday 3:30pm to 5:00pm

Saturday 3:30pm to 5:00pm

235-255 W Green Rd, London N15 5EG

Chigwell Row

Wednesday 4:45pm to 6:15pm

All Saints Church Hall, Romford Road, Chigwell Row, IG7 4QD

Chipping Ongar

Thursday 12:45pm to 2:15pm

Zinc Arts Centre

High Street, Chipping Ongar, CM5 0AD

Bruce Grove

Sunday 12:00pm to 2:00pm

RCCG

454A High Road Bruce Grove, London N17 9JD

3Social&WarmPlaces4U

1st Monday of the month

3:30pm to 5:30pm

All Saints Church Hall
Romford Rd, Chigwell Row, Chigwell IG7 4QD

3rd Wednesday of the month

10:00am to 12:00pm

St James’ Church Hall, Ongar CM5 9EL

2nd Thursday of the month
2:00pm to 4:00pm

Loughton Club, 8 Station Road IG10 4NX

Last Fri of the month

2:30pm to 4:30pm

Waltham Abbey Baptist Church, Paradise Road, EN9 1RL

Free NHS Health Check

1st Tuesday of the month

10-2pm Loughton Hub

1st Thursday of the month

11-3pm Ongar Hub

2nd Mon & Fri of the month

10-1pm Waltham Abbey Hub

Job Club

Every Tuesday

11-12:30pm Loughton Hub

How You Can Help

Donate food

We are always looking for non-perishable food donations

Volunteer
3food4u is run entirely by volunteers. Can you join our team?
Fundraising

To donate visit our fundraising page
DONATE

SHARE

If you know someone in need, or know someone who can help, please share us

About us

Run entirely by volunteers we are charity community hub that provides basic groceries and essentials to those in need. Treating people humanely with dignity and respect without the need for assessment or referral.

Phone

01992 842 642

Mobile / Whatsapp

07973 166940

Charity No.

1192310

EMail

[email protected]

Make A Real Change In Someone’s Life

Donate, Volunteer, Spread the word. Join us on this incredible journey to treat people humanely with the dignity and respect that everyone deserves.

"Thank you again for the help it was really great."

Ms M

"Really friendly welcoming staff. Very helpful, great with kids. Fantastic options even at the end of the day. No judgement."

Mrs K

"First time I've done this...bit apprehensive. Thought it was made painless by friendly attitude of staff."

Mr J

"This place is amazing, best emergency food support I've visited.'"

Ms L

"Fantastic resource set up locally in Waltham Abbey - food to all without question ! amazing job x"

Tracey

"Well done on all your hard work and we are pleased we could support you."

Essex Community Foundation

"You guys are all amazing at 3food4u, so welcoming and kind."

R.J.N.

"Thank you all for your kind work that you do God bless you all "

V.T.

"Incredible facility you provide"

M.S.

"You all do an amazing job"

M.D.

"Always love visiting with my son and daughter! The people are so welcoming , and the guy who I spoke to today was really funny!"

J.R.

"We are please that Loughton Town Council has been able to support your project "

Loughton Town Council

"...the fact u never feel shamed or embarrassed to attend and always welcome no matter who u are is a nice feeling"

K.D.

Please Donate

We received this message at 23.24pm on Wed 7th April from Michelle, which we replied immediately.

Michelle: Hi we are on benefits & we have a autistic adult son, we are finding it really hard at the moment, I was wondering if we are able to get help with food & clothes.

3food4u: Hello Michelle, I’m so sorry to hear about your situation. You are very welcome to come to any one of our hubs, you don’t need any ID or proof, and take whatever you need. It’s all very easy just like going shopping. Come early as there are queues.

Michelle: I’ve got to take my mum for her covid injection today, so was hoping to go to you tomorrow, I’m very nervous. But I saw on Facebook how lovely & friendly the people are & the people make you very welcome x

Michelle visited us on Friday, this is her experience after.

“I’ve used food banks before but never felt comfortable but when I went to your food bank everyone was so friendly and helpful. I would highly recommend you to anyone who’s struggling right now. What made it more special was the personal touch and none of the volunteers were judgemental as it seems to be from other food banks. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with everyone at the Waltham Abbey branch so I’d just like to say thank you to everyone involved.”

Michelle

Thank You to Our Partners & Sponsors

Bondi Foundation

Zinc Art Centre

Ongar

Member

All Saints Church,

Chigwell Row

Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation

Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation

Ongar Parish Church

Baptist Church, Waltham Abbey

Donate Today or Get Involved

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Volunteer

Help Those In Need By Donating Today!

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