As the lockdown period continues, so does our unbreakable community spirit, which is epitomised by one local family.
Desi Food, created by the Rafiq’s, is a food delivery service with the simple aim of fuelling NHS staff during the coronavirus pandemic.
Since supplying staff at Barnsley Hospital with curries, the popularity of their services has grown, so much so that the family are now selling their home cooked food on a Saturday evening, in aid of Barnsley Hospice.
Speaking on behalf of the Rafiq family, former Yorkshire CCC cricketer, Azeem, has been more than happy to lend a hand. He said: “Charity is something that is in our religion, it’s been embedded into us by our father. Once the pandemic began, we started dropping food off in the A&E Department at Barnsley Hospital and the concept grew from there!
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play professional cricket, but I don’t think I felt as proud then, as I did after I dropping off our first deliveries. I was just so proud to give back to a town, to a community that’s given us our lives.”
Having moved to South Yorkshire 19 years ago, the Rafiq family are fully aware of just how important Barnsley Hospice is to the town.
“The idea of raising money for Barnsley Hospice came about through Dan Jarvis. He mentioned that Hospices were struggling and needed support and we wanted to help. Barnsley Hospice is at the heart of our community, so it just felt like the right thing to do.”
However, Azeem stresses that without the support of the community, the initiative wouldn’t be possible.
“I’d like to thank everybody. We had the idea, but the support has been incredible. Initially, we thought we’d receive 20/30 orders, but it has taken off and the support from the community has been amazing.
“If there’s one positive that we can take from this difficult situation, it is that people are coming together. The people of Barnsley are tough Yorkies who pull together in tough times, and once this is all over, we’ll be proud of our actions.”
So, are you hungry? Want to help Barnsley Hospice? It’s an easy process!
- Place an order via Facebook or over the phone
- Desi will confirm your order with the total amount payable (including delivery charge)
- Make your payment via Paypal/BACS
- The food will be delivered straight to your door
- Enjoy the food in the comfort of your own home
And for those with a sweet tooth, you can now support Barnsley Hospice by purchasing Desi Food’s chocolate fudge cake!
Donating to Barnsley Hospice has never been easier, or tastier.
For more information, head to the Desi Food Facebook page here.
