We (The Smile Brigade CIC) are a small social enterprise offering free and heavily subsidised services and activities to people on low incomes or at risk of loneliness, poverty and isolation. Our activities aim to address a person’s physical, social, emotional and mental health needs - with the idea being to help take people away from the more negative aspects of life by providing positive and meaningful activities as well as an outlet for people to express themselves in a safe space and supportive environment.
One of our core services is our community kitchen, which we run once a week at Clem Attlee Community Hall in Fulham.
Operating once a week and for two hours only we have cooked and distributed over 3000 free meals to residents whilst creating a warm and friendly environment where everyone regardless of age, background, circumstance or income can come and enjoy free music, good food and great company whilst creating a real sense of love and pride within the community.
We have garnered interested from not only local residents but also from local businesses such as Big Yellow Self Storage Fulham, The Captain Cook Pub and The Yellow Panda Pub Company (The Rylston) who support our work and have been working with us collaboratively (by way of offering surplus food, equipment, storage space and donations) to help further our objectives - which is ultimately to bring the community together whilst helping to reduce loneliness, isolation and food poverty whilst also alleviating food wastage which exists within the borough.
I think that sometimes - big organisations can get it wrong - by turning people who need help away because they don't necessarily fit into the traditional idea of "needing help".
The organisation believe that everyone who wants or needs access to the basic necessities such as food and toiletries should be able to do so without shame in a friendly and non judgemental environment.
We feel very strongly that everyone - regardless of age or circumstances should have the opportunity to access free services and be able to partake in regular and meaningful activity which will ultimately give vulnerable people the skills and the confidence they need to integrate back into their communities and feel like valued and loved members of society!