Leonard's Lunchbox is named after my dog, Leonard, a rescue Akita who padded into my life in 2015. Its aim is to provide support to anyone who may require assistance in feeding their pets. It is also hoped that its weekly offering can be a way to bring a community together through volunteers, donors and all who may require help at any given time.

Leonard's Lunchbox started on 24 November 2022, initially funded by myself and some wonderful family, friends and supporters.

Leonard, who crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 28 January 2023, taught me many things about myself and about life in general.

Sometimes in life, things don't go accordingly to plan, despite the best of intentions but what stands out when things look bleak, is a hand or paw of solidarity.

As the costs of living crisis escalate, there are record numbers of pet surrenders. People are put in a position of having either to feed themselves or their pets or having to feed their children or their pets. This is a soul-crushing choice. Our pets are a part of our household, they are family. In many instances, they are a lifeline. Often, they are also someone's only friend - a reason to get out of the house and talk to someone and offer support for those with mental health.

One of the things that Leonard has taught me is that we can often do things greater than what we ever thought possible because love is such a big motivator. Leonard blossomed from a scared dog to a cheeky dufus with a sense of humour - a testament to the potential every living being has if only given the chance.

It is my hope that Leonard's Lunchbox can offer assistance without judgement, bringing a community together.

We meet every Thursday from 630pm to 830pm, at St Matthew's Church, Bethnaal Green, in the Parish Rooms (Hereford Street entrance). Instagram @len_lunchbox

Some coverage:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/69yRJ6JRxTJwiqjNjKObrZ

https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2023/10-february/news/uk/pet-foodbank-at-london-church-draws-crowds

https://www.churchofengland.org/node/46304/printable/print

https://ukdaily.news/london/the-animal-feed-bank-at-the-london-church-draws-crowds-149357.html