We’re a community of people who cook, share and care to combat loneliness and isolation.
About us
Based in Kent, we match volunteers who love to cook - with a neighbour nearby who’d benefit from a delicious home cooked meal - delivered with some company and conversation. Our volunteer cooks, armed with saucepans and a little bit of spare time, have shared over 13,000 meals so far.
Our vision
Our vision is connected communities where everyone feels valued, visible and supported.
Our mission
Our mission is to combat loneliness and isolation in communities through food and friendship.
Volunteer
We are looking to bring Food Friends to other areas of Kent. Interested in becoming a Food Friends Volunteer Cook?
Register your interest here today.
How It All Started – The Story Behind Food Friends
Food Friends was founded in 2019 by Anna, inspired by an unexpected and meaningful friendship with June, a remarkable woman in her 80s living alone in Whitstable. Despite 53 years between them, they quickly bonded over stories, laughter, and shared moments - reminding Anna of the power of connection beyond our everyday circles.
At the time, Anna was juggling the chaos of work and raising two young children. Meeting June grounded her, and their friendship highlighted just how important intergenerational relationships and community connections are - especially in a world where it’s easy to feel isolated, even in a busy town.
Food Friends grew out of a simple idea: that everyone deserves to feel part of a community.
By connecting people over a shared meal, we create space for conversation, compassion, and belonging - food has a unique way of bringing people together and bridging divides. What began as one unexpected friendship is now a growing movement - connecting people across generations, neighbourhoods, and life experiences, one home-cooked meal at a time.
Meet the Team
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Juan Villasmil Ortega
Lead area coordinator
Canterbury -
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Kathy Beal
Lead area coordinator
Whitstable and Herne Bay -
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Kati Ramsden
Lead area coordinator
Ashford and Medway -
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Anna Mantell
Founder
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Kefi Culkin
Lead area coordinator
Swale
Meet our Trustees
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Lisa Elliott
Lisa is a qualified nurse and experienced senior leader who is used to managing large teams, leading through change and handling budgets. She currently works at the Royal College of Nursing as the London Regional Director.
Lisa is passionate about the public health impacts of social isolation which is what drew her to Food Friends. She lives on the Kent coast with her husband, kids and elderly cat and enjoys taking advantage of living by the sea with frequent (and blustery) coastal walks!
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Bev Dela Cruz
Bev has spent over six years as a System Lead at Age UK Lambeth, where she oversees their Befriending service and various projects that support older and vulnerable people. She also volunteers as a Befriender herself, so knows first-hand just how important social connection is.
When she’s not working or volunteering, you’ll find her glued to a video game, attempting to learn the ukulele (badly), or planning her next trip—ideally somewhere with amazing food. Oh, and if there’s dessert involved, she’s definitely there! -
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Sarah Mills
Sarah is a long-time Whitstable resident – the very place where Food Friends was born and continues to thrive. With a professional background spanning several charities and local government roles, Sarah brings a wealth of experience in community development, public service, and strategic planning.
Sarah is deeply passionate about building strong community connections and believes in the power of grassroots initiatives to create lasting social impact. She is thrilled to be part of the Board, supporting the charity's growth and helping to shape its future. -
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Andrea Dennis
Andrea is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of NHS experience. She currently works as the Clinical Lead for a stroke service, bringing a wealth of clinical knowledge and leadership to her role.
As Food Friends’ Safeguarding Lead, Andrea offers expert guidance and oversight on all aspects of safeguarding, ensuring we create a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved. Based in Whitstable, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family, coastal walks, HIIT classes, and planning her next holiday adventure!
