Dedicated to providing community support across Bournville, the Hub has been awarded the substantial grant to help fund a completely new commercial kitchen, which will provide tea, coffee and hot meals to those in need in the area, as well as to local residents suffering from food poverty.

Bournville Hub’s previous community kitchen, which only included a basic kettle and worktop, has now been completely refurbished and includes everything from contemporary electric hobs and enhanced surfaces, to a brand-new fridge freezer, microwave, oven, sink, cabinets, dishwasher and kettle.

Bournville Community Hub was set up in 2014 by the Busy Parents Network and Bournville Village Trust to gather support, open the doors to new organisations and host activities for the local community.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Hub has been repurposed to become a centre for community support rather than just a meeting place and venue for social events and classes. Determined to do everything they can to support the local community throughout the crisis, the charity’s new kitchen will allow them to make more food parcels for those in need, create and deliver hot food to the elderly and families who are vulnerable, and to residents who are shielding.

The Cadbury Foundation, which is celebrating its 85th birthday this year, was set up in 1935 in recognition of Richard and George Cadbury and their investment in the welfare of their employees and the local community.

Sarah Mullen, chair of trustees for Bournville Hub CIO, the registered charity which runs Bournville Hub for the good of the community, commented: “Thanks to The Cadbury Foundation, our new kitchen will allow us to offer vital support including hot meals and food parcels to locals in need across Bournville during the pandemic and beyond.”

Kelly Farrell, community affairs manager at Mondelēz International, said: “We’re extremely proud to be able to support local charities who provide crucial support to individuals in need.

“Bournville Hub delivers an invaluable service and we’re delighted that with The Cadbury Foundation’s help, this kitchen has been created and is making a positive impact to local people in the community.”