London City Airport has pledged to donate £50,000 to help nine foodbanks in its neighbouring boroughs of Newham, Greenwich, Tower Hamlets, Barking and Dagenham.
The airport established a Community Fund which aims to provide local East London communities with an annual donation of £75,000. However, the impact of the coronavirus crisis has led to the airport securing an additional £50,000 for foodbanks.
Foodbanks are vital for the communities in East London, providing vulnerable people and families with essential supplies. The funds will allow organisations such as First Love Foundation to deliver food to people’s doors, as well as offering advice and support on the phone to those in need.
Pastor Obi Onyeabor from the Dagenham Foodbank stated that,“The kind donation from London City Airport will help us to replenish our supplies, deliver food to the doors of people that are self-isolating and continue with our soup kitchen for the homeless.”
Although London City Airport temporarily suspended all commercial and private flights on 25 March, it still remains accessible to support the emergency services and military in the national relief effort.
Kelly Tolhurst MO, Minister for Aviation commented, “London City Airport’s act of kindness shows that, despite the considerable challenges facing the aviation sector right now, businesses and those working in aviation are still supporting their local communities.”
