Lunchtime isn't just about grabbing a bite; it's a moment where communities come together, and sometimes, where political tides shift. This week, two stories highlight the diverse ways lunchtime is being used for more than just sustenance.
Charity Takes Over the Square
In St Helier, a social enterprise is making waves by taking over the lunchtime service at The Square restaurant. Beresford Street Kitchen, known for providing education, training, and employment to islanders with learning disabilities and autism, will be running the front-of-house operation. This initiative aims to boost employability and break down barriers to the workplace, allowing their crew to showcase their skills, build confidence, and gain meaningful experience.
Gabby Elmers, Chief Executive of Beresford Street Kitchen, expressed her excitement about the partnership. The Square's Assistant Manager, Alex Balbose, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of an inclusive workforce. Diners are encouraged to support the charity by visiting The Square this Thursday, with all service charges and donations going directly to Beresford Street Kitchen.
Mumbai's Dabbawalas Switch Allegiance
Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the iconic dabbawalas, who deliver hot lunches across the city, have delivered a political blow. The Mumbai Dabbawala Association, a 135-year-old organization, has shifted its support from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This move comes ahead of the Maharashtra local body polls and marks a significant change in allegiance.
Subhash Talekar, president of the association, cited the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s failure to fulfill promises made during the 2017 Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections as the reason for the shift. The dabbawalas, who have historically aligned with the Shiv Sena's ideology, feel let down by unkept commitments, including a promised financial support of Rs 5 crore to establish an independent company for the dabbawalas.
These two stories, though geographically distant, highlight the power of lunchtime – as a platform for social inclusion and a stage for political maneuvering. Whether it's supporting a local charity or shifting political allegiances, lunchtime is proving to be more impactful than ever before.