Over the course of the next month, Just Eat, Uk’s online food ordering company, will be delivering free meals to those who are vulnerable or have been isolated as a result of coronavirus.

Working with longstanding charity partner, FoodCycle, Just Eat will deliver food parcels with support from their delivery partner Stuart, to those in need.

FoodCycle provides community meals in 42 locations across the country, made using surplus food. Typically, volunteers take fresh, raw ingredients and cook meals, which FoodCycle guests and volunteers come together to enjoy.

In light of Britain being on lockdown and government guidance on social distancing, the service has been adapted to become delivery-only. FoodCycle will now provide food parcels made up of donated surplus food and will include groceries such as fresh fruit, vegetables, and store cupboard essentials. The packages will range in size and feed anything from individuals who are isolating alone, up to a family of four.

Supporting FoodCycle’s delivery service in Birmingham, the contact-free deliveries will be made by couriers from Stuart, who is part of the Just Eat network, and will support low-income families, people affected by homelessness and those experiencing physical and mental health problems.

This is one of the numerous measures Just Eat has put in place to support those impacted the most by the coronavirus outbreak. It recently introduced discounted meals for the NHS, which has so far saved healthcare workers over £1.5 million.

In addition, Just Eat has also put in place a £10m support package to assist small independent restaurants, to help them keep their business running and support their staff, and provides financial assistance for food delivery couriers who are unable to work due to self-isolation or falling ill as a result of coronavirus.

Andrew Kenny, UK Managing Director Just Eat said: “As the UK’s leading food delivery business, we’re committed to doing our bit and supporting the vulnerable in our communities. With millions doing the right thing and staying at home, this service has never been more important. We are proud to be able to provide continued support to FoodCycle, and make a difference for those who need it the most.”

Many of FoodCycle’s guests have either been categorised by the government as extremely vulnerable and advised to not leave home for the next 12 weeks, while some are facing financial worries brought on by a lack of job security.

Mary McGrath, CEO FoodCycle added: “Justin, our Regional Manager for Birmingham has done a fantastic job of collaborating with local charities and getting volunteers on board to switch our service from community meals to delivering food parcels. Our guests need us more than ever and demand is extremely high, so we are delighted that Just Eat and Stuart are able to provide their support to help FoodCycle deliver to even more vulnerable people in the area.”

David Saenz, Chief Operating Officer at Stuart said: “We are excited to be partnering with FoodCycle and Just Eat to help deliver meals to the most vulnerable members of the community in Birmingham. Being able to work together with our courier partners on such a rewarding mission is a privilege. At a time like this, we are thrilled to contribute to all of the efforts being made UK-wide to support each other.”

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