News / Coexist Community Kitchen
Community kitchen smashes target thanks to ‘overwhelming generosity’
Founders of Coexist Community Kitchen say they are “humbled and overwhelmed” by support they’ve received after setting their most ambitious fundraising target to date.
The not-for-profit cookery school’s Nourish Your Neighbour winter appeal initially set a goal to raise £50,000 but has now generated more than £60,000 in donations.
Coexist uses food as a catalyst for change, working to empower people from diverse backgrounds to come together, learn new skills and rebuild their lives.
is needed now More than ever
Through workshops and cooking courses, the organisation provides a space where those facing multiple challenges – including mental health issues, food insecurity, domestic abuse and seeking refuge from conflict – can find solace, support, and connection within their community.
The money raised will be used for essential things such as staffing costs, training programmes, acquiring new equipment, kitchen refurbishments and promotional activities.
The target was smashed through donations from the public that were quadrupled by Access Cost of Living Resilience Fund. Sovereign Network Group Thriving Communities Fund also contributed £10,000.
Founder and director Ari Cantwell said: “We are humbled and overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of our community. Their support has allowed us to not only reach our fundraising target, but exceed it.
“With these funds, we will be able to expand our programmes, improve equity of access and create even greater impact across Bristol. We urge anyone who has not yet donated to consider doing so, as we are trying to unlock as much of the match funding as possible to support our vital work in the year ahead and beyond.”
Coexist Community Kitchen cooks up to 150 free meals a week for those facing food insecurity – photo: Coexist Community Kitchen
The organisation runs multiple community empowering services, including free meals using fresh produce for those in need, Speak & Eat cookery classes for refugees looking to improve their English while sharing foods from around the world, as well as a wide range culinary workshops welcome to all.
Coexist Community Kitchen partners with other community organisations, including drug and alcohol groups, support for refugees and asylum seekers and mental health services, ensuring all marginalised or vulnerable individuals are included and supported across Bristol.
Ari Cantwell said: “We are humbled and overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of our community” – photo: Coexist Community Kitchen
To find out more and support the fundraiser, visit: www.coexistcommunitykitchen.org/nourish-your-neighbour.
Main Photo: Coexist Community Kitchen
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