The Community Food & Employability Programme is a six-month initiative designed to tackle food insecurity while creating meaningful pathways into employment, training, and volunteering.

Through partnerships with local organisations and food providers, Communities First Foundation collects surplus food and redistributes it directly to individuals and families experiencing hardship across Croydon. Alongside this essential support, participants are offered opportunities to gain practical skills, achieve recognised qualifications, and build the confidence needed to progress towards brighter futures.

By combining immediate support with long-term development, the programme helps individuals address current challenges while building the skills and experience necessary for sustainable change.

The programme provides a structured package of support that combines food provision, training, and employability development, including:

Weekly food collection and redistribution, supporting over 150 people each week

Level 2 Food Hygiene Certification for up to 16 participants

Weekly employability, life skills, and Food Safety & Hygiene training sessions

Practical, hands-on experience in food logistics, stock management, coordination, and community delivery

Ongoing mentoring and personalised support to help participants build confidence, routine, and resilience

Opportunities to develop transferable skills that support progression into volunteering, training, and employment