Southwark heroes were celebrated for their community efforts at an awards ceremony at Westminster Abbey last week.
Southwark’s heroes were among those across London who were celebrated at the Faith & Belief Community Awards ceremony at Westminster Abbey last week.
The awards celebrate the vital work of London’s faith and belief communities by bringing together local heroes and shining a light on their inspirational work.
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As well as getting to visit the esteemed Westminster Abbey, each winning project was given £500 to further their work.
Thirty-eight projects were recognised with awards, ranging from Environmental sustainability to community resourcefulness in response to Covid-19.
The Celestial Church Of Christ Amazing Grace Parish in Peckham got an award for their community work during the Covid outbreak. Elizabeth Akinsanya, from the church said: “The pandemic exposed the inequality and suffering of many families especially those with no recourse to public funds, and as a church, we had to support these families regardless of faith.
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She said going to Westminster Abbey was ‘mind-blowing’.
“I had to pinch myself to be sure I wasn’t dreaming. During the queen’s funeral I was glued to the screen, admiring the beauty of this iconic building, so to be part of sitting in it was a great honour for me.”
“Every year we provide Christmas hampers for a variety of age groups, so the money we got will go towards Christmas hampers for the most vulnerable service users,” Elizabeth added.
Another Southwark winner was The Redeemed Assemblies Trust for their community food bank. They opened their food bank during the pandemic and are open 7 days a week.
Franklin Akpomuvwe, food bank manager said: “There is no registration – the only criteria is that you’re hungry and you need food.“
“We’re happy to win this award as it tells us our efforts are working.
“Going to Westminster Abbey was awesome – it’s an amazing site!” he added.
Phil Champain, the Director of the Faith & Belief Forum, said: “Faith and belief groups are at the centre of community life in London, providing vital services and support to those in need and a strong sense of belonging to their members and beneficiaries. We believe that the power of collaborative faith and belief based social action needs to be supported, recognised, and celebrated.”
Other local winners included Growing Hope Brockley and Pecan food pantries.
The London Faith & Belief Community Awards ceremony took place Wednesday 23rd November Westminster Abbey.
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