Fighting food waste. Feeding our community.
The work that St Albans Community Pantry does is simple – and powerful: closing the gap between food waste and food insecurity. It’s about making sure that perfectly good food doesn’t go to waste when there are people in our community who need it.
At EYES on St Albans, we’ve supported the Pantry in all sorts of ways – often guided (in the most enthusiastic way possible) by the brilliant Raihaanah Ahmed, who helps steer the whole thing with energy, warmth and a never-ending to-do list.
Sometimes that means hosting cake sales in the shop. Sometimes it means acting as a collection point for donations.
Sometimes it means helping raise the profile of the Pantry and the vital work they do – whether that’s through a shout-out on our window, a post on social media, or a conversation in the shop that sparks a new supporter.
We know how much community fridges matter. We know how tough it can be for organisations like this to secure funding and keep going. So if we can lend a hand – or a table, or a tray of brownies – we’re in.
The Pantry’s work aligns perfectly with our own values: community, care, and showing up for people in a way that’s practical, no-nonsense and full of heart.
“Sometimes community looks like a cake sale. Sometimes it’s a donation point. Sometimes it’s just doing what’s needed (or what we’re told), no questions asked.”
“Jez’s sincerity and enthusiasm for all SACP fundraising events translates into a huge uptake and incredibly generous donations; which permits us to continue our services in the community.
Jez covers all bases, from marketing which significantly elevates the charity’s visibility to use of his shop space allowing us to collate product donations. His comprehensive support creates accessible fundraising where everyone is able to get behind our efforts. He really does take care of every detail.
Over the years Jez’s contributions have helped us increase our volunteer base, attract other corporate supporters and of course raise a substantial amount of money; the end result being that we have been able to provide a consistent service to thousands of people in St Albans and the neighbouring villages.
We are indebted to Jez for his unwavering commitment.“
– Raihaanah, FOUNDER, St Albans Community Pantry
