A fantastic community led space has undergone a temporary change of use to help Harrow residents during Covid-19.
One Forty, based in Vaughan Road, West Harrow, opened their doors in February to offer classes, events, party hire and open coffee mornings. They had got off to a flying start and word was just beginning to spread when the country went into lockdown.
Without hesitation, founders Kasem Chouja, Lauren Fynn and Charlotte Crawley contacted local shops who run no waste initiatives such as Lidl, Gail’s Bakery, Tesco, Marks & Spencer and Waitrose, who very kindly offered to donate surplus groceries and toiletries. Ready cooked meals have been donated by Taz at London’s Community Kitchen and a much needed fridge by Whirlpool.
With strong support and donations from the local community, volunteers and London Freecycle coordinator Linda Gallvin, One Forty has redistributed food, homeware, toileteries and baby goods throughout the borough to those in need and self isolating.
Unfortunately, the situation with Covid-19 looks like it is going go be a factor for much longer than anyone could’ve anticipated and One Forty would love to continue to keep going and are brimming with ideas for the future but, without an income, it might be a struggle. The regular music events, art classes and coffee mornings remain on hold but everyone continues to be welcomed in for a socially distanced chat and essential supplies.
If you, or anyone you know may need a helping hand please call into them for a warm welcome. No questions are asked and you don’t require a referral. Unlike a food bank, the founders want One Forty to be for everyone in the area, free of stigma.
In order to keep it running, both during this crisis and beyond, voluntary donations are welcomed at the shop and via a Go Fund Me page which has been created to help with ongoing costs.
If you would like more information about future use and events or need help with supplies to get you through the remainder of lockdown, head to 140 Vaughan Road, HA1 4EB. Their current opening hours are 9:30 – 10:30 and 17:30-18:30 on weekdays and 9:30-10:30 at weekends.
(All Photo Credits: Patricia McHugh)
