Cookbook in memory of ‘tireless’ volunteer hopes to raise funds for Norwood

A food charity set up and run by Jewish women from London has launched a new cookbook in memory of a beloved volunteer, to raise money for the refurbishment of a Norwood restaurant.

Food For You (FFY), based in north-west London, on Thursday launched a book of recipes in Hampstead Garden Suburb in memory of Sara Morein, a “tireless and effervescent” volunteer whose daughters have taken on her charity work.

All proceeds from the book, called ‘Simply Food For You,’ will go to Jewish charity Norwood, which is refurbishing its training kitchen at the Kennedy Leigh Centre in Hendon, where service users with learning difficulties learn the basics of hospitality and catering.

The new kitchen and restaurant, to will be renamed Sara’s Kitchen, will teach the users about food preparation, barista skills, customer service, food hygiene and retail operations, in order to promote their independence and social skills.

Sara’s husband David said his wife would have been delighted to have her name against a project so close to her heart, saying: “Norwood encapsulates two of Sara’s main passions: a love of preparing and providing delicious food and a genuine care and interest in helping others.”

He said supporting young adults with learning difficulties in the preparation of food was a fitting tribute to his wife, who passed away in 2015, over a decade after the Food For You charity was born.

“On this journey young adults will acquire the immeasurable joys of gaining independence, self-confidence and friendships that we feel sure will benefit them in all aspects of life,” said David.

“I can’t think of a more apt and meaningful way to honour Sara’s memory and provide a legacy that will help others for many years to come.”

Sara’s daughter, Laura Nathan, said she had become involved with the charity since her mum passed away, and was at the book launch on Thursday, where she and other recalled Sara’s passion for food.

“Everything about mum revolved around food,” said Laura. “So it only seems right that our chosen charity and project was inspired by her passion. Norwood is an incredible charity and Sara’s Kitchen at Norwood will provide a training and purpose for many young people.”