Meet Charlotte, the inspiring founder behind Crisis Food Gosport.
Today we’re spotlighting Charlotte Blake, the founder of Crisis Food Gosport. Since March 2020 Charlotte has supported her community with eating well, food provision and putting healthy meals on the table. All the while, she has helped bring her neighbours together and enhance community spirit.
Here, Charlotte talks about why she setup Crisis Food Gosport and what recognition at this year’s Tpas Awards means.
1.Can you tell us about your connection to the community?
Over the last 18 months I have established a very personal relationship with all of the families we have supported. I’ve actually got to know them on a personal level even though I’ve not met them all! They trust me, they know I would never discuss their situation with anyone. I’ve been quite prolific with the Gosport community – I don’t think there is anyone left who doesn’t know what Crisis Food Gosport is.
2. What inspired you to setup Crisis Food Gosport?
I setup Crisis Food Gosport in March 2020 at the start of the pandemic, initially with another woman who left shortly after. It was called Crisis Food for Free Gosport back then, as all the food we received from FareShare was free. It was formed as I knew times were going to be really tough for people, not just those on low incomes but everyone, and I knew people were going to need support.
When my children were small I had to use a food bank; I walked in with nothing and left with nothing I could make a meal with. Although I appreciated the food, it didn’t help me cook a meal. I knew there and then that if I could ever help people I would do it in a completely different way.
3. What are you hoping to do with the project moving forward?
Moving forward with the project I want it to remain the same: affordable balanced food to encourage cooking from scratch. Hopefully once people know how to cook from scratch they may be able to leave food poverty.
4. What does being nominated for Tenant of the Year at the Tpas Awards mean to you?
I will be honest: I have no idea what Tenant of the Year will mean for me, for us. I haven’t been nominated for anything before and I’ve always shied away from publicity, preferring to stay under the radar. Everything I do, we do, is with care note go, but I’m pleased Crisis Food Gosport is getting some recognition.
5. What advice do you have for anyone wanting to setup their own project like you have?
Do it but do it with care not ego. Find the right balance, it’s hard and you will lead with your heart not your head. Respect everyone the same but don’t be afraid to do things the way you want to do them.
Read more about the impact Charlotte has had with Crisis Food Gosport here.
