Paul Canal asks if you can make up an extra plate on Christmas Day to continue the Wanstead tradition of sharing and kindness
For many of us, Christmas is a time of laughter, warmth and full tables surrounded by family and friends. But for some in our community, it can be a day of silence, a reminder of absence rather than abundance. That’s why, since 2020, a simple but beautiful Wanstead tradition has quietly made a big difference: local families cooking one extra Christmas dinner, plating it up, and delivering it to someone spending Christmas alone. No fanfare, no big organisation, just kindness on a plate.
We all cook too much at Christmas. The cost in money, food waste and carbon emissions is staggering. At the same time, a few streets away, someone is lonely and hungry. They would appreciate a Christmas meal. We are throwing food away. The connection is instant and the solution obvious! Plate up an extra meal and brighten a stranger’s Christmas.
Every year, I’ve been humbled by the generosity of our community: families juggling their own festive chaos who still take time to make up an extra meal; volunteers driving through the quiet Christmas streets, bringing not just food but warmth, conversation and a reminder that someonecares.
This year, I’d love to make it even bigger. So, if you’re on your own this Christmas – or know someone who is, for whatever reason – please don’t be shy. Let us bring a Christmas meal (and a smile) to your door. And if you’re one of the many generous households in Wanstead who could make up an extra plate, we’d be so grateful for your help.
It’s a small gesture, but one that brings huge comfort – proof that Christmas spirit is alive and well in our little corner of East London.
The benefits are obvious. Less food waste, a delighted lonely person in need and a reminder that Christmas is really about giving. And in addition to a hot meal, and perhaps a Christmas cracker or two, we are also reaching out and offering friendship, empathy and real community spirit. There are many reasons why someone could need a meal this Christmas, from being on their own through bereavement or relationship breakdown to ill health, old age, disability or financial issues. Throughout the year, many people in Wanstead support the Tin in a Bin foodbank network. Think of this as ‘tin on a plate!’
Previous years have seen up to 80 meals delivered via the Wanstead Christmas Dinner Appeal, including vegetarian and halal meals. I certainly hope the need is less this year, but I also hope that whatever the need, our great local community can once again meet it and continue the Wanstead tradition of sharing and kindness.
To receive or provide a Christmas meal, send a message to 07769 159 433 or email havenhousexmasbakers@gmail.com
Those on their own at Christmas are also invited to join Christmas Day lunch in the halls of Christ Church. To book a ticket, visit wnstd.com/lunch25 or call 020 8530 8743
