SONIA KUMAR MP JOINS FOODCYCLE DUDLEY VOLUNTEERS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS’ WEEK
DUDLEY — Sonia Kumar, Member of Parliament for Dudley, has praised the work of community dining charity Food Cycle following a visit to FoodCycle Dudley, where she met volunteers, served meals, and spoke with local people about the importance of tackling loneliness and food insecurity.
The visit, held at St Francis’s Church, also marked FoodCycle Dudley’s fourth birthday and formed part of celebrations ahead of National Volunteers’ Week.
During the visit, Sonia joined volunteers in helping serve food and drinks to guests attending the community meal and has now officially signed up as a registered FoodCycle volunteer herself.
FoodCycle Dudley brings local people together each week over free community meals made using surplus food that would otherwise go to waste. The project provides not only nutritious meals, but also friendship, companionship and support for people who may otherwise feel isolated.
Sonia Kumar MP said:
“FoodCycle Dudley is about far more than food — it’s about community, kindness and making sure people know they are not alone.
It was a privilege to spend time with the fantastic volunteers who give up their time to help others and create such a warm, welcoming environment for local residents.
As we celebrate National Volunteers’ Week, I wanted not only to thank them, but also to get involved directly — which is why I’m delighted to now be a registered FoodCycle volunteer myself.
Projects like this show the very best of Dudley: people coming together to support one another.”
During the visit, Sonia met and thanked the volunteers who help run the project each week.
Those volunteering during the session included hosts Andy, Alex, Graham, Sim and Alison, alongside cooks Sasha, Louise, Deb, Leda and Gil.
Feedback shared with Sonia during the visit highlighted the impact the project has on local people.
One guest said:
“It’s not only eating, it’s like talking, sharing and caring. It makes us feel energetic and togetherness.”
Another added:
“Something to look forward to.”
Volunteers also described the positive impact FoodCycle has had on their own wellbeing and sense of community.
One volunteer said:
“This volunteer role has made me realise what I have, what I can give and how lucky I am. I have made some wonderful friends who enrich my life.”
Sonia Kumar MP added:
“Community organisations and volunteers play a huge role in supporting people through the cost-of-living pressures many families still face.
FoodCycle demonstrates how powerful simple acts of kindness can be — bringing people together, reducing loneliness and creating stronger communities.”
Residents interested in supporting FoodCycle Dudley can volunteer, donate or find out more via the charity’s website:
https://foodcycle.org.uk
Donations can be made directly at:
https://foodcycle.org.uk/donate/
