People of all faiths and backgrounds came together at Camden Town Methodist Church for a unique early Mitzvah Day project to help tackle hunger and food insecurity in the region.
Titled ‘Mitzvah Day Hunger Hurts: A Community Conversation’ – and run in partnership with Camden Food Bank – the key part of the day was a panel discussion with faith leaders, experts in the field and individuals with lived experience. Their candid and open conversation provided a real opportunity to learn about the challenges faced by those struggling with hunger and to discuss potential solutions.
There was no charge for the event, instead attendees were encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or toiletries. These donations are now being distributed to local families and individuals in need through Camden Food Bank, which is run by Trussell.
Mitzvah Day is a UK-wide day of social action that brings together people of all faiths and backgrounds to volunteer and make a difference in their communities.
The charity’s CEO Stuart Diamond said: “Our Mitzvah Day theme for 2024 is ‘Stronger Together’ and this event encapsulated it perfectly – promoting interfaith dialogue, community service and the power of unity.
“As we face increasing challenges of food insecurity and social division, it’s crucial to come together as a community. By uniting people from diverse backgrounds to address these issues head-on, we can foster compassion, understanding and create a more just society.”
Camden Town Methodist Church’s Deacon Sally Wheadon told how it was a “privilege for our church to host this important event.”
She added: “Talking with people of different faiths, and hearing the stories of those with lived experience of hunger, really brought us together in our common calling to challenge injustice and help those in need in our communities.”
To register for this year’s Mitzvah Day, which will take place on and around Sunday 24 November 2024, please visit mitzvahday.org.uk.