Kitchen of Hope, launched in 2023, gives our sanctuary seeking volunteers an opportunity to use their skills and knowledge to cook dishes from their home countries.
St Simon’s Church in Southsea, offered their kitchens to the volunteers, who have all passed food hygiene tests, to create dishes for special events and for community groups to enjoy.
Kitchen of Hope Volunteer chefs have been focusing on community, cooking at events and sharing the food they love from home with people and communities across Portsmouth, such as for the rough sleepers hub, and two community Iftars as part of Ramadan.
A St. Simon’s event organiser said “We were thrilled to have Kitchen of Hope cater our event. The food was absolutely delicious, all the guests were raving about it. The team was professional and so friendly. We will definitely use them again in the future and would highly recommend them.”
Who? Our chefs and volunteers are largely asylum seekers and refugees, although we welcome other local foodies to get involved and help us grow.
Where? Based at St Simon’s Church in Southsea, but we also cook for events at other locations across the city.
When? Currently we cook for two or three events each month, although with more volunteer chefs and keen volunteers we hope to cook more regularly.
Why? Help our chefs feel more at home and integrated in Portsmouth. Nurture Portsmouth’s culinary diversity and culture, celebrate festivals and community, support career development and have fun.
Want to support or get involved? Please connect with us on Portsmouth City of Sanctuary’s Instagram @portsmouthcityofsanctuary or Facebook @PortsmouthCityofSanctuary.