HOW WE SUPPORT FAMILIES
Barawak supports families by providing nutritious food, essential items, and a safe, culturally grounded space where dignity comes first. We understand the pressures many households face, so our approach is practical, compassionate, and rooted in community care.
We Need Partners
We have a team of volunteers some on the ground and other behind the scenes working together to ensure the food bank stays open. At the moment we are finding ways to partner with more organisations to improve our offering.
Nutritious Food Weekly
We offer a mix of non‑perishables, fresh fruits and vegetables, and rescued surplus food from partners including M&S, Aldi and Sainsbury’s. This ensures families receive nutrient‑dense produce that supports their wellbeing.
Essentials
When available, we share personal care items, children’s clothing, and other donated essentials that help families manage day‑to ‑day needs with dignity
Culturally Grounded Support
We understand the African and Caribbean communities we serve; the food, the traditions, the pressures, the realities. Our services reflect this, offering a space where families feel seen, respected and understood.
Food Rescue & Distribution
Our volunteers aim to collect high‑quality surplus food across Lewisham every day, preventing waste and redirecting it to households who need it most. We need more volunteers.
Food Rescue & Distribution
Families know they can come to Barawak without judgement. We offer warmth, conversation, and connection because support is more than food; it’s community.
SAFEGUARDING & DIGNITY
Barawak is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every adult and child who enters our space. Our safeguarding policies ensure protection, dignity, and care at all times.
OPENING HOURS & LOCATION
Barawak Centre
8 Kingfisher Square
Deptford, London SE8 5TW
Food Bank Day:
Wednesdays 1PM - 4PM
Email: foodbank@barawak.org
HOW IT WORKS
1. Visit Us on Wednesdays
Our Food Bank runs every Wednesday 1pm - 4pm. Families are welcomed by our volunteers and guided through the space.
2. Choose What You Need
We operate a dignity‑first model where families select the items that best suit their household.
3. Stay for a Chat
Tea, conversation, and community connection are always available.
Register for the
Barawak Food Bank
24
Households served weekly
56
3
12
1248
kilos fresh, rescued and essential food shared weekly
partner organisations supporting (Aldi, M&S, Sainsbury's)
dedicated volunteers
driving, sorting, greeting and caring for families
households supported annually
over 2 tonnes of food distributed each year
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT US
Organisations can support through food drives, sponsorship, or in‑kind donations.
We are currently seeking:
Tinned goods, rice, pasta, oil, toiletries, nappies, and culturally familiar foods can be dropped off on Tuesday 7pm at the centre
commercial fridge to safely store fresh produce and expand our weekly distribution
Join our team of drivers, sorters, greeters, and community helpers.
Local businesses willing to donate equipment, offer transport or volunteer time
OUR TEAM
Barawak’s Food Bank is powered by a dedicated team of volunteers who show up for SE8 with consistency, compassion, and love.
Every day, our drivers travel through Lewisham rescuing good food that would otherwise go to waste. Back at the centre, another part of our team carefully sorts the produce checking quality, preparing fresh items, and making sure everything is just right for our community members.
On Wednesdays, our volunteers transform the space into a warm, welcoming hub where families can choose fresh food, children’s clothing, and personal care items with dignity. They greet every person with kindness, conversation, and a genuine desire to help. Our team understands that life brings moments when we all need support. That’s why Barawak exists to ensure that families in SE8 are taken care of, respected, and never left to struggle alone.
