Youth group fundraises for much-needed items for people in need in Barnet

Baha’i group putting together packs for Finchley Foodbank

We are really pleased to have the support of the Bahaʼí Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Programme, from East Finchley, a group who meet weekly and encourage their members to find ways to serve the local community. As part of this, they recently visited Finchley Foodbank Aid to learn more about how food banks operate.

The Baha’i Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program is a worldwide educational initiative for young people aged 11–15, aimed at fostering moral, intellectual, and spiritual growth. Groups meet regularly to discuss meaningful topics, develop, and carry out community service projects.

The group leader, Tara Hamel-Smith said

“They were particularly inspired by what they learned, especially when they realised that young people their own age are among those benefiting from the food bank. During their visit, they were also told that toiletries and cosmetics are often in need but are not donated as frequently as food items. As a result, they decided to create toiletry gift packs for families. They have fundraised and bulk purchased items to assemble 100 packs.”

Ayyam-i-ha label on packs from the Baha’igroup

“The children also wanted to explain why they chose to do this at this particular time of year, and created a label to include in each pack.”

Finchley Foodbank has agreed to distribute the pack to families alongside food parcels. Our manager Rachel Nelson said “we’re delighted that the Baha’i group have been finding out about the work of foodbanks in north London, and so pleased that they were inspired to fundraise for much-needed toiletries. It’s wonderful that young people are so engaged in this way, supporting our community. I know our clients will be glad to have their packs.”

Packs from the Baha’i group