With Christmas on the horizon, The West Ham Syndrome Podcast takes a look beyond the pitch to explore how the West Ham community looks after its own. Andrew and Max are joined by John Ratomski, founder of Irons Supporting Foodbanks, to talk about how the organisation began, how it grew through the challenges of the pandemic and how it continues to make a difference across East London and Essex.

From the early days of collecting donations outside the London Stadium to supporting over 100 foodbanks and community groups, John shares what drives the organisation, how the club has helped along the way and what’s next for their work.

How you can donate or get involved with Irons Supporting Foodbanks:

• Food & essential item drop-off: You can drop off food and other essentials at several locations including:
  • ASDA Beckton, Tollgate Road, Beckton E6 5JP.
    (ironsfoodbanks.co.uk)
  • TESCO Beckton, 1 Armada Way, Beckton E6 7FB.
    (ironsfoodbanks.co.uk)
  • Waitrose Westfield Stratford, The Arcade, Westfield Stratford City E20 1EH.
    (ironsfoodbanks.co.uk)
  • Also at the collection point on match-days: Stratford Walk (opposite the Park Information Centre, on the route from Westfield to the Stadium).
    (West Ham United Supporters' Trust)
• Cash/online donations: You can also donate money online via their JustGiving page, which allows ISF to purchase emergency food items and support wider community projects.
  (ironsfoodbanks.co.uk)
• Volunteer time: If you have around 30 minutes to spare, you can help at match-day collections (three hours before home games).
  (Blowing Bubbles)
• Other support: ISF also welcomes help with clothing donations, furniture/goods for community hubs, and partnerships with local businesses.
  (Newham Chamber of Commerce)

Plus, stick around for some West Ham quick-fire questions and Max’s weekly trivia challenge.

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