The ESS Energy team are preparing and delivering 4,500 meals for charities supporting those in need this Christmas. Led by Graham Singer, Culinary Director for ESS Energy and Compass Scotland, the volunteers are preparing a selection of meals comprising:
- Macaroni cheese with selected vegetables
- Roast chicken with pigs in blankets, potatoes, carrots, peas and gravy
- Roast beef with potatoes, carrots, peas and gravy
- Roast shoulder of pork with potatoes, carrots, peas and gravy
- Chicken tikka masala with pilau rice
- Vegetarian dhal stew with pilau rice
- Chilli con carne with pilau rice
- Beef bourguignon with pilau rice
Recipients will be given a meal pack containing each of the dishes that will feed them for several days over Christmas.
The team are also providing a range of hampers containing Christmas confectionary, festive selection boxes and staple food items of soups, pasta, cooking sauces, rice, biscuits, tea, coffee and ambient ready meals.
The initiative is being supported by donations from ESS supply partners Amity Fish Company Ltd, Benzies of Turriff, Lomond Fine Foods, Riso Gallo and Strachans Ltd.
ESS client CHC Helicopter Services kindly allowed the use of its facilities to prepare and pack the meals and hampers.
Graham and the volunteers are proud to be able to help with the fantastic work of the following organisations this Christmas:
- Bo’Ness Food Pantry – A community food pantry that accepts donations from local businesses and individuals which a network of volunteers distributes in food parcels around the local community.
- Stonehaven Fetteresso Church – Far & wide charity supporting the community of Stonehaven.
- Churches in Aberdeen.
- Sheltered housing for the elderly.
- Local community centres where meals will be available for collection.
- The out of hours Homeless Service run by Aberdeen City Council.
- Anyone who is encountering hardship this year due to the cost of living or other difficult circumstances.
Debbie, a representative of the Homeless Service, commented:
“The lovely meals supplied by the group go to so many good causes. From feeding the people in our homeless units to individuals, families, elderly people and those who face Christmas alone. In a time where food banks are stretched, and pasta and sauce are the staple for many as an affordable way to eat, these nutritional meals are a true godsend. Anyone who approached us for a meal this Christmas will be given a delicious meal prepped by the chefs. This is a fantastic service.”
Graham added:
“We are so pleased to be supporting local organisations and their beneficiaries again this Christmas. It’s an honour and a privilege for us to provide these meals and treats for those who are less fortunate. Thanks to all the volunteers and suppliers who are supporting us this week – your generosity is greatly appreciated.”
