Community Cooking: Building connections through cooking
Date Posted: Aug 13, 2024.
In 2023, St. George in the East Food Hub launched Community Cooking Classes in Tower Hamlets to foster cultural understanding and bridge
new connections in the community.
These classes offered a diverse group of local women a space to learn
new cooking skills, form friendships, enhance their well-being and learn
to cook affordable, healthy food.
Meeting this diverse group with different backgrounds and faiths on Catalyst and having the opportunity to hear their experiences really lifted me up,” Tamim recalls. “Before, I wasn’t really the type of person to socialise with new people and feel comfortable, and I’ve often been quite shy. However, going on the course, my mind was blown really, I’ve gained a lot of confidence through this opportunity.”
Across the four workshops, 36 women participated,” says Katie, one of the coordinators. “We wanted to do something to tackle food insecurity in a sustainable way.” Participants were diverse, including young mothers, older women with grandchildren. “I’ve attended all three workshops and they’ve been great,” shares Isra. “I already enjoyed cooking but have liked learning something new and meeting others.”
Lisa, a participant, found the workshops beneficial beyond cooking.“It helps me with my mental health and gets me out of the house. It would be really nice to do this more often.”
The programme addresses significant local issues. Tower Hamlets has the highest level of child poverty in the UK, with over 50% of children living below the poverty line. By teaching budgeting and cooking skills, the workshops provided a sustainable approach to reducing food insecurity. “Lots of the local parents told us they don’t know how to cook Western food but that’s what their kids want to eat,” explains Katie. “People also told us they struggle with budgeting.”
The cooking classes also fostered social cohesion. “I didn’t cook before at home,” says Charlotte. “It’s been good to learn new skills, meet new people, and get out of the house.” Janice, a school support worker, facilitated the sessions, creating a welcoming atmosphere. “She makes everyone feel comfortable,” noted one participant.
St. George in the East Food Hub successfully created a supportive environment where women from different backgrounds connected, shared experiences, and built lasting friendships, demonstrating the power of community initiatives in addressing both immediate and long-term needs.
