01 Jun 2024
St Albans Community Pantry has launched a new initiative to showcase the delicious menu possibilities using rescued foods.
The aim of their Surplus Supper Clubs is to change the mindset surrounding food waste and food redistribution, highlighting how everyone has a part to play, and encouraging every demographic of St Albans to join the fight against food waste.
The first event, which took place at Poggenpohl on London Road, featured Danielle Durant of The Cobbled Kitchen.
Pantry founder Raihaanah Ahmed said: “We’re delighted to have had the mastery of Danielle of the Cobbled Kitchen demonstrate and prepare a seven-course tasting menu. The team at Poggenpohl have been so generous with exclusive use of their showroom and in providing goodie bags for all. Lucy Clark of Heaven is a Cupcake has been a wonderful supporter of SACP since 2021, we can’t thank our Porters Wood neighbour enough for the gorgeous brownies for all guests to take home to enjoy.
“All monies raised from this event will be funnelled back into providing fresh fruit, vegetables and fridge essentials for the emergency food aid boxes. All 70 volunteers remain entirely unpaid.
“Looking forward, we’d love the support of the community in helping us provide weekly community breakfasts, lunches and dinners from rescued foods – across St Albans. If you’re making plans to grab brunch with a friend do consider popping by our community kitchens and pulling up a chair next to an isolated elderly resident or other individuals. We are keen to keep building warm welcoming and cohesive spaces for all to enjoy.
“With our infrastructural costs having doubled since January 2024 we are in real need of funds, but if you can’t make a monetary donation we’d welcome your time. There are so many flexible ways you can get involved. Please do give us a follow on social media and share our posts to your networks – help us beat the tricky algorithms!
Our next event is on June 14 at DJs Jungle St Albans with Alec Tomasso of The Weeping Chef set to dazzle us with his culinary wizardry – and young and talented Sherwood Singers providing the entertainment. We’d love to see you all there!”
All pictures by Claire Lane Photography.
