Who we are
Sufra is a charity based in North West London that works to prevent hunger, fight poverty and build strong, connected communities. With the support of its volunteers and partners, Sufra runs a network of food banks, community kitchens, a community shop and a café. These services provide more than food. They offer a welcoming space where guests can access wider support, including welfare advice, asylum support and Sufra’s award winning community garden.
Sufra works alongside its guests to understand the challenges they are facing and to find solutions together. At the same time, the organisation campaigns to address the root causes of hunger and poverty.
Our project
The Emergency Aid Fund
Many of the individuals and families who turn to Sufra’s services are experiencing extreme financial hardship or destitution. Around half of Sufra’s guests are Muslim and many are waiting for decisions on their asylum claims. Sixty percent are women, most of whom are caring for children. Over forty percent of those supported are under the age of eighteen and one in eight is under the age of five.
While Sufra provides essential items such as food, toiletries and clothing, some guests also need urgent financial support. The Emergency Aid Fund helps meet these immediate needs, including transport costs so people can attend medical, advice and immigration appointments. It supports document handling, such as postage for Home Office applications and help with documentation costs. The fund can also contribute towards short term emergency accommodation for people facing homelessness, as well as utilities, phone data top ups and essential household items like heaters and bedding.
By supporting the Emergency Aid Fund, COSARAF helps Sufra offer a lifeline to people at their most vulnerable. This includes the single mother who has just lost her job, the asylum seeker at risk of homelessness, and the pensioner using his last savings to pay for heating.
