By Bejay Browne.
In just a few weeks, a Paphos establishment has been helping those in need by providing free hot meals, which are also delivered.
Tony Theo, Judy Mitra and a group of volunteers decided to step in when the coronavirus virus outbreak first got underway, to ensure that people in need in Paphos have at least one meal a day.
Chalkies Kitchen in Coral Bay has served more than 1,700 free meals in just a few weeks and are relying solely on donations to enable them to carry on.
Tony said that he is covering the overhead bills, such as electricity, that will be incurred and felt that he wanted to do something to help during the Covid-19 crisis.
“We are running with a group of our staff and a few others who give their time and energy for free. Our three Chalkie’s Bar/Kitchen cooks Hayleigh, Billy and Kurtis do all the prep and cooking, Donna helps with taking orders, also in the kitchen and packing the rounds for delivery. We’re here 7 days a week and they all give their time free of charge,” Tony told the Paphos Post.
He added that volunteers, Elle Carter helps in the kitchen, Paul Carter helps with deliveries when needed, as do Stuart Pennock, David Frost and Peter Backhouse.
“We get donations of food and cash that helps, and we do have a fund me page that can be found on our Chalkie’s Kitchen Facebook page,” he said.
All of the money gathered goes towards the purchasing, production and delivery of food.
The group are feeding all sorts of people in Paphos that have found themselves in a difficult situation during the coronavirus pandemic. Some are hotel and other seasonal workers that have yet to receive any money from the state, and are of all different nationalities.
“What started as a simple idea to feed 5 or 10 people a day has turned into a full time endeavour now.”
The group are desperate for donations of food to enable them to keep up with the demand, Tony said.
“Hopefully this will all be behind us soon but in the meantime if you or anyone you know is struggling to put food on the table then please let us know.”
All volunteers follow the latest social distancing and protection measures.
To volunteer, donate or if you need help : Telephone: 26 343511 or www.facebook.com/chalkieskitchen
