Maka Twins Pitch In to Support Families Over the Summer Holidays
By Communities Correspondent
Social media influencers the Maka Twins rolled up their sleeves to help spruce up Nunhead Salvation Army as it prepares to support families throughout the summer holidays.
John and James Makanjuola, who have built a large online following by cleaning public spaces across London, spent time helping at the church's food bank before tidying the outdoor area where families will be able to relax during a programme of free and low-cost summer activities.
The twins cleaned tables and chairs, pulled up weeds, swept the outdoor space and watered plants to help get the area ready for visitors.
Over the school holidays, Nunhead Salvation Army will provide £1 food bags for children every day, alongside free weekly activities including arts and crafts and board games.
The initiative aims to support families who may struggle with additional food costs while free school meals are unavailable.
John said: “All kids should be able to relax and have some fun over the summer holidays, but we know too many families can barely afford to feed their kids, never mind pay for days out or activities.
“We love the work The Salvation Army does to help families who struggle with the cost of living, so we wanted to use our social media platform to raise awareness. We also love cleaning and it’s a pleasure to be able to tidy up the outdoor area at Nunhead Salvation Army to get it ready for summer family fun.”
Captain Katy Shubotham, leader of Nunhead Salvation Army, said:
“Children being able to enjoy the summer should not be a luxury and no child should go hungry. Families deserve to have access to affordable and nutritious food options especially when they’re out and about with their children and our £1 food bags have been put together with this in mind.”
One local parent, Maria, said the £1 food bags would make a real difference to her family during the holidays.
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Due to the cost of childcare and her own health conditions, Maria stopped working after the birth of her youngest child. Although her husband works full-time, she said rising living costs mean the family has to budget carefully.
She said: “I notice the cost of my weekly food shop rising every week and money just doesn’t stretch far enough. I am always looking for the cheapest options and have to budget.
“The £1 food bags are so handy and affordable and if we go somewhere like the local park, getting one will take away the stress of having to buy food for a picnic or worrying about the cost of food when we’re out. I’ll probably pick up a bag a couple of times a week over the summer and I’m also happy that they provide my child with a nice and nutritious lunch.”
As well as running a community café, Nunhead Salvation Army operates a food bank that is open to anyone in the area who needs support.
The church's free family sessions will take place every Thursday during the summer holidays from 23 July, with activities including crafts and board games.
