Sacks Morasha families have celebrated a bountiful harvest this summer, donating a large portion of their harvest to help those in food poverty.

For over two years, the families have been nurturing their very own allotment in Finchley, north London, and this summer’s harvest has been one of the most rewarding yet.

Families gathered to enjoy the fruits of their labour, with children excitedly digging up potatoes, picking beans, and collecting wild blackberries.

“It’s wonderful to see the kids so engaged,” said one of the parents. “They’re learning where their food comes from, and it’s so rewarding for them to see the results of their hard work. The allotment is filled with different creepers and plants, making it a fascinating place for them to explore.”

Pupils of all ages helped dig up food from the Morasha allotment (Photo: Morasha School)

In addition to enjoying the fresh produce themselves, the Morasha families have also been giving back to the community by donating a large portion of their harvest to Food Bank Aid, who collect from the allotment each week.

Food Bank Aid, which was started by Naomi Russell in 2020 distributes food, toiletries and household goods across north London and Hertfordshire, from Watford to Tottenham and everywhere in-between.

Russell, who lives in north-west London, registered Food Bank Aid officially in 2021 and the distribution centre in Finchley now serves 32 foodbanks across London.

The Morasha’s allotment project, which is heading into its second year, also continues to grow – both in the variety of produce it yields and in the number of families involved.

Since its launch, it has served as a hub for families to connect with nature and to promote physical and mental wellbeing.

Morasha pupils dig up food from the school's allotment, much of which was donated to Food Bank Aid (Photo: Food Bank Aid)

As for the children who dug for potatoes and picked the beans and blackberries this summer, there was already a sense of excitement for the next planting season.