On Tuesday 17 September, our esteemed Food Hub founders, Alison Thomas and Katy Anderson, received an Honorary Masters Degree from University of Chester.
In their typical understated manner, Ali and Katy downplayed their contributions to the Hub, which has seen remarkable change and growth since its inception in 2016.
“While honoured and flattered – we want to recognise that the food hub has changed and grown enormously since we started and that it’s success has got very little to do with the founders and a lot more to do with the constant commitment of staff and volunteers who believe in what we are doing – turn up and make it happen 7 days a week. So thank you!”
This is the reality. The first year saw 14 tonnes of surplus food rescued. By the year ending March 24, this figure had soared to an annual average of 215 tonnes, resulting in a total of 970 tonnes saved since the Hub’s establishment. This equates to approximately 2.3 million meals and a reduction of 2,665 tonnes of CO2. While these numbers highlight the environmental impact, the social benefits are equally significant.
The Foodshares which we support seven days a week, provide not only food but also a space for social connection. Local charities benefit from reduced food budgets, allowing funds to be allocated elsewhere. Local school children get to experience and taste new foods, and they love it. Community groups use our food to teach cooking skills which participants can replicate at home. Volunteers gain teamwork experience and have lots of fun.
Upon hearing the news, our Patron, Anna Turner, remarked: “My sincere congratulations to Katy and Ali, you are accepting this on behalf of everyone that works so hard and successfully at the food hub, we are all grateful for the leadership you have shown, it is recognition for all.”
Mike Haddaway, SFH Trustee “Huge congrats to both of you! Well done. Whilst I understand the sentiment in your comments, without you both sowing the seed and getting the enterprise off the ground in the first place, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
Sarah Jackaman, SFH Trustee and Food Safety Expert “Wonderful news & congratulations! What an honour – and for your degree will come from a prestigious University, with a great reputation for their innovative Food Tech work.
Kate Hudson, SFH Trustee “What fabulous news. And I agree with all the other comments that it is very well deserved. The success of the Food hub is a testament to your vision, resilience and years of hard work. Enjoy this accolade and recognition.”
Daphne Welch, SFH Trustee “Congratulations to you both! A well-deserved accolade. Whilst accepting that we’ve grown enormously since you both started the Hub, it was so pioneering and grew because of your ideals, charm, hard graft and sheer determination in the beginning and your constant support, intelligence and energy along all the journey since. If only you could run the world! What a wonderful place it would be.”