At Gratitude, Borehamwood food bank, we hold a deep and unwavering belief: when we serve our community, abundance grows for everyone. Not only in food or resources, but in connection, hope, dignity and quality of life. As we step into the new year, this belief is not just an idea — it is something we are living, breathing and witnessing every single day.
January has begun in true abundance. Through the extraordinary commitment of our volunteer team and partners, Gratitude food bank is now supporting over 3,050 people each week with food and essential supplies. The volume, variety and consistency of support has grown to such an extent that we are now able to extend help beyond our immediate area — supporting other food services in Watford and Firm Foundation in Harrow. This is what happens when generosity compounds: giving doesn’t deplete us — it expands our reach.
Our Kids’ Corner, once a biweekly service, has grown organically in response to need and now operates seven days a week, just like the food bank. In the past month alone, we supported over 60 families and more than 120 children, providing nappies, toiletries, creams, toothbrushes, toys and clothing. We were also able to respond to seven emergency family situations, offering immediate care when it mattered most. We feel deeply privileged to be part of a service that meets people where they are, without judgement, and with compassion at its core. If you or anyone you know, could benefit from family and children provisions please reach out to us via the link.
As kindness grows, so does community involvement. We are continually humbled by teams from local companies, brotherhoods and schools who choose to step forward and volunteer their time. These teams help sort, restock and distribute food to families across Borehamwood, and their commitment and care create a tangible impact every single day. What we are witnessing is powerful: when people give, they inspire others to do the same — and the circle of generosity widens.
Giving also creates momentum beyond borders. This month, thanks to generous donations of mobility aids and children’s and adult clothing, we were able to send another full van of vital support to Ukraine, responding to urgent needs during the coldest and most challenging season.
Education and service remain central to Gratitude’s mission. We have just completed our second year working with a local secondary school, welcoming groups of Year 7 and 8 students into our centre to learn about service, responsibility and the impact of community action. Together, they prepared food parcels for children in Borehamwood receiving free school meals and needing extra support over the weekend — young people discovering first-hand that their actions matter, and that they have the power to make a difference.
To everyone who has given time, resources, energy or heart this month — thank you.
Your generosity is the reason this work continues. It is the reason abundance grows.
Because when we give, we don’t lose.
We grow — together.
Together, we are building a stronger, kinder community.
Together, we are spreading Gratitude.
