Come Dine With Us - Family Feeding Programme

Our community dinning programme offers warm, nutritious meals, in a welcoming space, while providing connection and support for families facing challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Reduce food insecurity

We reduce food insecurity by providing families experiencing financial hardship with access to nutritious meals alongside practical support that eases immediate food pressures. Through our Come Dine With Us community family dining programme, we offer free meals and shared activities that help alleviate the strain of the cost-of-living crisis. Operating across two wards in the London Borough of Merton, the programme has provided 3,546 nutritious meals within one year.

Create safe social spaces for families

We create safe, welcoming social spaces where families can come together, feel supported, and build positive relationships within their community. Our programmes provide inclusive environments that reduce isolation and offer families the opportunity to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. Through shared meals, group activities, and facilitated sessions, families are able to relax, socialise, and develop meaningful connections in a space that promotes dignity, belonging, and wellbeing. These safe social spaces strengthen community ties, support emotional wellbeing, and help families feel less alone during times of financial and social pressure.

Provide signposting to additional support where needed

We provide clear and trusted signposting to additional support, helping families access the wider services they may need beyond our programmes. By inviting partner organisations to attend our sessions, families have the opportunity to speak directly with professionals about available support, including advice, wellbeing services, and practical assistance. Alongside this, we offer guidance and referrals to trusted local organisations, ensuring families are connected to the right help at the right time. This approach reduces barriers to access, increases awareness of available support, and empowers families to seek further assistance with confidence.

Our clients’ testimonials speak volumes about our services and commitment. Get an insight into their experiences.

Participant Experiences and Endorsements

I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the amazing work you do in supporting children and families in our local community. The food and care you provide every Thursday make such a difference to so many people’s lives including my own.

Genny L.

Your dedication and generosity bring comfort and hope to families who are facing difficult times. Our community heavily relies on the incredible support you offer and we are deeply thankful for everything you do, your efforts do not go unnoticed, and they mean more than words can express.

Amie

I just wanted to take a moment to say how much I appreciate the come dine with me evenings held every Thursday. The opportunity to enjoy a free two-course meal is already generous, but what truly makes it special is the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the volunteers from the community. It’s more than just a meal – it’s a chance to connect, relax, and feel a real sense of community.

Parris S.