The Good Food Group (GFG) and the Kingston Surplus Hub, initiatives led by Kingston Voluntary Action (KVA), have been created to address the growing challenge of food insecurity across the borough of Kingston upon Thames. These projects unite local charities, community groups, and businesses to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food support network.
Our Mission
To ensure that every resident in Kingston has access to nutritious, affordable food: while reducing food waste and strengthening community ties.
What We Do
- Central Network Hub: Making nutritious food accessible and affordable for everyone in Kingston
- Surplus Hub: Bridging the gap between food waste and food poverty locally by sourcing, coordinating and distributing surplus food.
- Training & Support: KVA empowers local organisations with training in food safety, nutrition, and operational efficiency, alongside support in securing funding.
- Strategic Planning: In partnership with local authorities, KVA community food are working towards improving health and wellbeing outcomes for residents and communities.
- Community Engagement: Events like the Kingston Good Food Event bring together food groups to share ideas, celebrate successes, and plan for a more food-secure future.
Why It Matters
- As of 2024, 1 in 5 households in the UK experienced food insecurity, with families with children, disabled individuals, and those on low incomes being most affected.
- In Kingston upon Thames, local data suggests that over 25% of households with children have struggled to access sufficient food at some point during the year.
- Nationally, over 4 million children live in households that have experienced food insecurity in the past month.
These initiatives are vital; not only providing immediate relief but also working toward long-term, systemic change. Together, we are building a future where no one in our community goes hungry.