Southend's One Love Soup Kitchen goes above and beyond through pandemic

Despite the challenges faced over the past year, the team were able to provide food and clothing as well as mental and emotional support to those who need it most.

Above and beyond - even through the hardships of the pandemic, their efforts didn’t stop

After becoming a registered charity named The One Love Project, initiatives – including their distribution centre – were launched to help people across Southend.

In February, the team were given temporary use of Mecca Bingo’s warehouse to use for their distribution centre, giving them space to accept thousands of bags of donations.

Covid safe - Clothes are put in dated bags and stored for 72 hours

These are redistributed to those in urgent need or sold via their online charity shop, with all funds raised going directly towards helping those in crisis.

But to carry on their work, the team are looking for a permanent home for their distribution centre, as they will have to vacate the space as soon as lockdown eases.

Moving on - the group had temporary use of Mecca’s warehouse. All photos: Gaz de Vere

So far, One Love has been able to help clothe nursing home residents, struggling families, donate to Hestia – a charity which rescues people from slavery, as well as families fleeing domestic violence and the homeless.

To help, contact management@onelovesoupkitchen.com

One Love Soup Kitchen spread

Hard at work - One Love has helped make a difference to so many lives across Southend

Thankful - The space helped One Love accept thousands of bags of donations