COMMUNITY groups have rallied together to dish out hundreds of free meals to Southampton’s homeless people.
Charities have come together to cook up 400 fresh meals for the the city’s homeless community.
The initiative has been spearheaded by the Council of Southampton Sikh Gurdwaras and One Community Hampshire and Dorset (OCHD).
The meals deemed “particularly welcome given the current cold snap” were served on New Year’s Day at shelters across the city including Two Saints Homeless Shelter, the Booth Centre Salvation Army Hostel, and the Society of St James.
Members of the Sikh council have said they want to make a difference during unprecedented and testing times caused by the coronavirus crisis.
Food historian and community strategy officer for OCHD, Dr Sanjukta Ghosh said: “OCHD has been actively supporting the needs of the vulnerable through food aid during the lockdown.
“Extending emergency food to those experiencing the privations and harsh conditions of homelessness is part of OCHD and the Council of Southampton Sikh Gurdwara’s humanitarian duty.”
Lord Rami Ranger CBE, Chief Patron of the charity said the initiative brings communities together to serve humanity and is to be commended.
Alan Mercel Sanca, co-founder of OCHD, added: “This is most valuable in time of need that our Sikh community of Southampton in conjunction with OCHD are making a difference.
“It testifies to the humanity of the Sikh ethos.
“An initiative of this kind is much needed in Bournemouth too.”
For more information visit the One Community Hampshire and Dorset Facebook page or email pritheepal@ochd.org.uk
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