Charitable Organization Founder Expresses Gratitude to Volunteers Following National Recognition

The individual who established a charitable organization, dedicated to supplying meals to hundreds experiencing food poverty, has extended gratitude to its volunteers subsequent to the receipt of a national accolade. Friends of Di’s Kitchen (FODK), situated in Wolverhampton, received a King’s Award for Voluntary Service, an honor bestowed upon groups for exceptional community contributions. Jan Kellond stated that she established the charity within her Penn residence to honor the memory of her “lovely, caring” friend, Dianne Henry, who had operated a soup kitchen in the city for a period of six years. FODK commenced operations in 2020 by distributing weekly meals to six individuals, and currently, approximately 50 volunteers deliver over 960 meals every Thursday, a significant portion of which goes to children. Ms Kellond remarked, “It’s humbling that such a hardworking and loyal group of volunteers, has been recognised for their service to those in food need across the city.” She added, “Without their dedication each week none of what has been achieved over nearly five years would have been possible.” She further mentioned that the provisions were supplied to individuals requiring assistance in Wolverhampton “free of charge and without judgement.” She stated, “The volunteers also offer emotional support to the recipients and signpost them to other agencies who might be able to offer further help.” On a weekly basis, half of the individuals served receive a wholesome cold meal, while the remaining individuals are given a bag containing store cupboard ingredients and excess fresh food contributed by supermarkets. Among the volunteers are students from an educational institution catering to pupils with additional needs, and the collective receives backing from various other charitable and religious bodies, schools, and commercial enterprises. The initiative was established in remembrance of Mrs Henry, who passed away in 2018, by her friends and her widower, Keith Henry, who holds the position of president at FODK. The friends initially connected when Ms Kellond commenced volunteering at the soup kitchen in 2015. “Dianne was a lovely, lovely person who cared about everyone, everyone was her friend,” she recalled. For updates, follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.