A new community lifeline officially opened its doors on Saturday 22 August, bringing vital practical, digital, and wellbeing support to residents in Whitefield.
The Champions of Destiny Foundation has launched its weekly Community Hub at the Elms Community Centre on Green Lane in Whitefield. Operating every Saturday from 10:30am to 1:00pm, the hub offers a completely free food pantry alongside a dedicated Digital Cafe to combat poverty and isolation.
Founded by local Whitefield residents Sam and Grace, the voluntary organisation is built on the philosophy of upholding the dignity of every human person and their right to flourish.
Champions of Destiny is all about empowering people to live their best life," explains co-founder Grace. Drawing inspiration from Catholic Social Teaching, their goal is to help people thrive, not just survive, so that they can fulfil their full potential within the human family.
To tackle the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the hub’s food pantry offers essential non-perishable groceries entirely free of charge, though voluntary donations are accepted.
Running alongside the pantry is the Digital Cafe, designed to eliminate digital exclusion. As a member of the National Digital Inclusion Network working together with the Good Things Foundation, the hub provides "Digital Champions" - volunteers who offer a supportive, "human face" to technology, helping guests navigate digital needs, access government services, and build online confidence without feeling embarrassed by a lack of skills.
The opening day drew warm praise from attendees, including local resident Ben, who visited the centre to show his support.
I was very privileged to attend the first day of the new Champions of Destiny project at the Elms Community Centre - Ben.
This is a voluntary organisation, and it was lovely to watch as people came for help and guidance. They have a lovely Food Pantry as well as IT help, but also a helpline for someone to talk to, alongside one-to-one face-to-face friendly help. Please come along and show your support - it is light from the darkness of this world.
Beyond physical services, the organisation provides comprehensive well-being support. This includes an optional, confidential "Digital Sanctuary" prayer line and a weekly gospel podcast produced by Sam on Spotify and YouTube to offer reflections of hope.
The voluntary organisation operates entirely through the dedication of friendly volunteers who are ready to welcome you with a warm smile. If you are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis or want to improve your digital skills, you are warmly welcome every Saturday from 10:30am to 1:00pm at Elms Community Centre, Green Ln, Whitefield, M45 7FD.
There are no referrals required, no vouchers needed, and the provision is open to absolutely everyone in the community.
The organisation’s website is www.codef.org.uk , where you can find out more about the organisation and other services they offer.
