City Volunteers Seek Drivers for Meal Deliveries
A dedicated group providing free meals to nearly 1,000 people in need each week is calling for additional volunteer drivers. Friends of Di’s Kitchen (FODK), co-founded by Jan Kellond in memory of her caring friend Dianne Henry, operates out of Wolverhampton and is expanding its reach.
The Need for Volunteer Drivers
– Current Operations: FODK currently deploys around 18 drivers every Thursday to deliver meals to just over 300 homes.
– Service Impact: Since its inception in 2020, FODK has rapidly grown, now serving an average of 975 individuals weekly, including 470 children.
– Volunteer Request: The organization is looking for driver volunteers to assist for about two hours on Thursday afternoons during their meal delivery service.
Jan Kellond emphasizes that while the number of volunteers has grown to over 50, they always welcome new drivers to support their mission.
Significant Achievements
– Historical Growth: FODK started with a modest goal of serving six people and has since provided food to 169,000 guests across the city—37,000 of whom have received assistance since March of last year.
– Community Recognition: FODK’s impactful work was honored with a King’s Award in 2024, underscoring the group’s commitment to serving the community.
Community Support
The organization’s growth is attributed to the generosity of local businesses, charities, and individuals, many of whom donate food or monetary contributions unexpectedly. Recent support included hundreds of packets of instant mashed potatoes from Idahoan Foods, which will be utilized in upcoming meals.
Kellond, a retired teacher with a passion for community service, stated that all food is offered free of charge and without judgment, maintaining the welcoming spirit that Dianne Henry championed during her time running a church soup kitchen.
How to Get Involved
Those interested in volunteering as drivers for meal deliveries can contact Friends of Di’s Kitchen for more details. The organization is keen to continue its mission of aiding those in need and appreciates any assistance from the community.
To stay updated on FODK and its endeavors, follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on various social media platforms including Facebook, X, and Instagram. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of many individuals and families in the city.