Saturday, July 02, 2016

One Third soup kitchen round off Ramadan

Emdad Rahman: The One Third soup kitchen team finished the last shift of Ramadan 2016 with a biriani belter at Stratford City. Tonight's team consisted of a mix of adults and kiddos all determined to serve their community. 

Homeless citizens are no different you any of us. It's not choice but circumstances which puts them in such dark places. I mean what sadist would go out intentionally to sleep rough or in a hostel? They deserve the same respect and dignity as any other fellow being. 

The kids were briefed on etiquette and each one was on top form, serving, smiling and chatting to our homeless guests. We had a Police officer join us for a bit whilst he was waiting to be picked up by his colleagues. With Germany playing Italy in the Euros the town centre was bustling and it made sense to have the visible presence of the boys and girls in blue amongst us. 

The delicious biriani was gone within the hour. Well the punters said it was delicious. We couldn't sample evens teeny morsel because everyone was fasting and there was none to take away. That's how good it was. 

The food was provided by my Chach Moklis and his family on behalf of their deceased father. He was a true soul and his legacy lives on amongst his children and grandchildren. I should know - my family have had the good fortune of three generations of mingling with these rascals.

Our regulars were there. Rosie took extras and the Eastern Europeans were very friendly with the kids. We did miss the bubbly Amanda tonight. Bully said he hadn't seen her for a while and we hope she's good. 

Thanks to Abdullah, Talha, Zainab, Ayesha, Amina, Hamza and Aunty Dil for the cracking support.

If you see a homeless person next time you're out then please buy them a bottle of water, or a coffee or a sandwich. Smile and talk to them for just one minute. You'll fill their day with sunshine. 

If you'd like to help me on a shift then you can message me on Twitter @emdad07

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