Organiser of Doncaster Food Aid says ‘don’t feel ashamed to ask for help’

Doncaster Food Aid was set up by Vijay Swaly, business owner and health care worker.

He cooks hot meals and delivers them to those in need all across Doncaster.

Vijay, 28, from Cantley, said: “I don’t want people to feel ashamed to ask for help.

“No one know what tomorrow will bring and when rough patches will come.

“My mum always said ‘don’t ever look down on someone, only help them back up,’ which is something I live my life by.”

Vijay cooks food such as curry, rice, pasta and lentils and then delivers it to anyone who has requested a meal.

He also takes hot food down to charities who care for homeless people in the town centre.

“At the moment it is only twice a month as I own a small business and work at DRI so I don’t have that much spare time,” he continued.“But I would like to do it every weekend.”

Vijay is passionate about his no judgement policy when it comes to Doncaster Food Aid.

He said that he will not ask questions and has a no door knock policy to make sure those he helps feel comfortable.

“Not everyone knows where their next meal is coming from,” he said.

“If I can help then I will.”

Vijay owns his own take away food business named AppetiSingh.

He uses the kitchen of his small business to prepare the hot meals that he delivers.

The business recently received a four star hygiene rating.

“I know first hand what a difference a hot plate of food can make,” he said.

“After finishing 12 hour shifts at the hospital it means the world to have a dish put down in front of me."

Vijay doesn’t accept cash donations but people can buy ingredients for meals that he is preparing if they want to support his venture.

He can be contacted through the Doncaster Food Aid Facebook page here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.