The Nazim Ali Foundation’s Khidma Community Kitchen has marked its first anniversary, celebrating a year of providing warm, three-course meals to those in need in Bradford. Sponsored by Saveco Cash & Carry, the initiative has served over 8,500 meals since its inception, offering vital support amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
The anniversary event, held at the Millan Centre in Manningham on 27 February 2025, saw volunteers distribute 162 meals as part of the outreach programme. Those in attendance received a hearty meal consisting of rice, chicken curry, lentil curry, roti, cake, and bottled water—an offering that has become a lifeline for many struggling with food poverty.
Over the past year, the Khidma Community Kitchen has operated every Tuesday evening, filling a crucial gap in food provision in the district. The service has also been instrumental in engaging young volunteers, with 66% of its 69-strong volunteer base being under the age of 18. Organisers say this engagement is vital, as it fosters a sense of social responsibility among the younger generation.
Award winning Nazim Ali, founder of the initiative, reflected on the significance of the project, noting that beneficiaries come from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, highlighting how food poverty affects all sections of society. “The overwhelming gratitude from service users reaffirms why this community kitchen was started,” he said. “Every week, we see people from different nationalities accessing the service, demonstrating the widespread impact of rising living costs.”
Ali has been involved in community work for over 27 years, both in the UK and internationally, and was recently recognised in the King’s New Year Honours 2025 with a British Empire Medal. He remains committed to the belief that “servitude is a blessing” and that charity should begin at home.
The weekly food provision is made possible through the continued support of local business Saveco Cash & Carry, whose CEO, Haji Shiraz Ahmed, has been a longstanding sponsor. “As a Bradford-based business, we believe in giving back to our community,” Ahmed stated. “Nazim Ali and his foundation do incredible work, whether through feeding those in need or bringing joy to children in hospital through his Creating Smiles Gifts Initiative.”
To mark the occasion, Ali’s mother was invited as the guest of honour and led the cake-cutting ceremony. Volunteers and supporters gathered to celebrate a year of service, reflecting on the project’s impact and the ongoing need for such initiatives.
The Khidma Community Kitchen continues to operate every Tuesday from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Millan Centre in Manningham, ensuring that those in need can access a hot meal in a welcoming environment.
For those who know someone in need of a meal, organisers encourage referrals to the service, reinforcing the commitment to providing support without barriers, regardless of faith or background.
