Words by Smiley Team
Named after a local activist, Kath Duncan, Kath’s Place is well-loved by locals as a stop-off point for a cuppa, or to browse the shop inside for a bargain. In memory of its namesake, they ensure every penny they spend goes towards helping others nearby.
As an independent, grassroots initiative, the shop, cafe and foodbank, offer a perfect example of neighbours helping neighbours. Donations and money from those with enough go towards supplies for others who are struggling to get by.
“Books, clothes or toys, donated and sold here all help disadvantaged people,” shop assistant Stewart Lendor tells Smiley News, “- not just unemployed people though, but anybody who's in financial difficulty or homeless. We don't discriminate against anybody.”
Rather than separating supporters from beneficiaries, everybody shares the space together as equals. Thrift shoppers riffle through the vintage clothes downstairs, while visitors to the food bank can get warm in the shop with a hot drink before they leave with the supplies they need.
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“We're giving something back to the community. If we can't help we will direct people to alternative support. So we are basically friendly people who are here to help,” Stewart adds.
Outside, on the aptly named Friendly Street, the staff also leave a box of freebies for anyone to help themselves. Whether it be bags of fresh salad, books, or clothing, this gift box enables anyone to anonymously collect something they need.
Whoever turns up to the shop looking for help can subscribe to the food bank for a minimal cost, in order to collect packaged meals, subsidised food and baby supplies. All they need is to show proof of address or ID. Members of the food pantry pay just £5 for shopping worth about £40, while the food bank is for referrals only.
The initiative is part of Kath Duncan Equality & Civil Rights Network, a network of activists across the globe working towards social justice and civil rights.
Find Kath’s Place at 50 Friendly Street, Deptford, SE8 4DR.
Opening times are 10-4pm Wed-Fri and 10-3pm on Sat.
