This November, Food for Life’s Cook and Share initiative is back, aiming to unite communities across the UK through the joy of cooking and sharing meals. In Oxfordshire, local groups are embracing this event thanks to support and grants from Replenish Oxfordshire, a project funded by Oxfordshire County Council to promote home-grown, nutritious, and zero-waste cooking practices.
Several community events across the county will focus on cooking techniques, food preservation, and celebrating cultural diversity:
- Witney Food Revolution Community Fridge: On Tuesday, 26th November, this group will host an event focusing on reducing food waste. Families are invited to learn practical food storage and preservation tips to help them make the most of surplus food.
- Northway Together: This community group will celebrate both Cook and Share and Black History Month on Wednesday, 20th November. Participants will learn to cook traditional dishes like fried chicken and dumplings.
“Cook and Share really is a central part of our whole ethos for our kitchen café, so every Wednesday has this quality. Our celebration of Black History Month makes it that bit more special.”
Andrew Patching of Northway Together
In addition to these events, grants have been awarded to other groups, including Stonehill Community Garden, Oxford City Farm, Bridge Street Community Garden, The Parasol Project, Tandem Collective, Yellow Submarine, Sustainable Duns Tew, and Barracks Lane Community Garden. These organizations will host Cook and Share activities throughout the month to encourage sustainable, community-centred cooking.
Get Involved
To attend the Witney or Northway Cook and Share events or to speak with an organizer, please contact ebulmer@soilassociation.org.
Through these community-driven initiatives, Oxfordshire residents are coming together to celebrate good food, reduce waste, and promote sustainable eating practices for all.
What is the Food for Life’s Cook and Share initiative?
Food for Life’s Cook and Share initiative is an annual event held each November, designed to bring communities together through the joy of cooking and sharing meals. The program encourages individuals, schools, and community groups across the UK to host events that promote healthy eating, culinary skills, and social connection.
The initiative is structured around weekly themes to inspire diverse activities:
- Week One: Cooking for People – Emphasizes communal gatherings, such as Bonfire Night, to unite people over hearty meals.
- Week Two: Cooking for Pleasure – Focuses on the enjoyment of preparing and sharing food, highlighting the joy it brings to individuals and groups.
- Week Three: Cooking for the Planet – Encourages sustainable cooking practices, including the use of seasonal, locally grown, and organic ingredients, as well as reducing food waste.
- Week Four: Cooking for the Pocket – Offers budget-friendly recipes and tips to help participants cook nutritious meals without overspending.
Participants can access a variety of free resources, including recipes and event planning guides, to support their involvement. These materials are designed to be accessible to all, regardless of cooking experience or available facilities.
What is the Witney Food Revolution?
The Witney Food Revolution is a volunteer-driven community initiative in Witney, Oxfordshire, dedicated to reducing food waste and alleviating hunger. Established in November 2019, the organization operates a Community Fridge and Larder, redistributing surplus food from local businesses to the public. This effort not only minimizes food waste but also supports individuals facing food insecurity.
Community Fridge: Open to everyone, the Community Fridge offers free access to surplus food collected from local supermarkets and donors. The available items vary daily, depending on donations. Operating hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Amos Room, Wesley Centre, High Street, Witney.
Community Larder: In partnership with SOFEA, the Community Larder operates on a membership basis, providing members with a selection of non-perishable items and fresh produce weekly. Individual memberships cost £3.50 per week, granting access to up to 10 non-perishable items and unlimited fruits and vegetables. The Larder is open on Wednesdays from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the same location.
