A nationwide food charity is coming to Swindon later this month to serve free meals weekly.

FoodCycle launched in London in 2009 and has grown ever since, now with 61 projects across the country and over 16,000 volunteers nationwide.

Alex Hatherly, 30, is FoodCycle’s South-West Regional Manager and explained what the charity does to help those in need.

“We take surplus food that would usually be thrown away by local businesses, and we then turn it into a free community meal,” she said.

“We have no referral system so this complimentary meal is open to all.”

Swindon Advertiser: Pinetrees Community Centre is where Swindon residents can pick up their free weekly meal.Pinetrees Community Centre is where Swindon residents can pick up their free weekly meal. (Image: Newsquest)

 

The organisation’s latest project is in Swindon and will commence from Thursday, November 24, and the complimentary meal will be available every Thursday evening at 6:30pm at the Pine Trees Community Centre in Pinehurst.

Ms Hatherly has been working at FoodCycle for three years and oversees the recruiting and training of new recruits in the South and Wales.

She also cooks in the kitchens, preparing the meals which so many rely on so dearly.

“FoodCycle is an incredibly rewarding place to volunteer, and you can make a tangible difference very quickly,” she said.

Swindon Advertiser: Alex Hatherly (pictured) has been working with FoodCycle for three years.Alex Hatherly (pictured) has been working with FoodCycle for three years. (Image: Alex Hatherly)

 

The charity relies on donations to be able to continue serving up meals to those who are in need the most.

“We are looking for new food businesses to donate to us, such as independent grocers and bakeries,” stressed Ms Hatherly.

If you would like to help FoodCycle in Wiltshire, collection can be arranged by emailing swindon@foodcycle.org.uk, where more information will be provided.