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Ms Stewart MSP joined members of the Leith and Edinburgh community, volunteers from HCF and SABS, and faith, healthcare and civic partners at the Hibernian Community Hub in enjoying authentic South Asian cuisine, and friendly conversation and company.
The Minister for Equalities’ visit to Pitch-To-Plate coincided with the largest crowd to date to attend the meal, as over 240 people from a vast range of backgrounds gathered inside Easter Road’s Famous Five Stand.
“The best thing that I felt tonight was the connection and joy that was in the room, with people chatting to one another,” said MS Stewart MSP following the meal.
“I saw a room that was intercultural, multicultural, coming together in peace, joy and food. I loved that, it really touched my heart to see all these community connections; especially in the backdrop of what we’re facing to see this shining example of opportunity.”
The Pitch-To-Plate multicultural meal has become a cornerstone of HCF’s community offerings, partnering with SABS 18 months ago to offer opportunities for members of diverse cultures to connect with one another; all while providing warm meals for those in the community.
“It has been amazing to see how quickly Pitch-To-Plate has grown,” said Katie Stewart, HCF Head of Community Development.
“To bring people together from all backgrounds in one space to share meals and have meaningful conversations is so important today. We want people to feel a part of a united community, and we remain committed to being a welcoming space that is open to all. We have learned so much in this past year and a half, and we only hope to grow what we and SABS can do in this area.”
SABS, a Shia Muslim charity based in Edinburgh, partnered with HCF in early 2024 to increase its reach and offering, aiming to connect people from faith and non-faith groups alike for meals and events such as Tuesday night’s.
“We strongly believe in service to, and providing for, our neighbours. Whether people of faith or no-faith, we are brothers and sisters equal in humanity,” said SABS Co Chair Ali Hussnain.
“Tonight is just one example of what we do and how we connect people. It is important and impactful to have a Minister in Kaukab Stewart attend and see the guests joining in, nurturing a real community spirit. It is amazing what using food and sport as a backdrop can do for bringing people together.”
“We want to see examples of people joining together and tonight is just that. I feel empowered that we can all work together to respond to community needs and create spaces for everyone,” concluded MS Stewart MSP.
Pitch-To-Plate began in May 2024 when HCF and SABS joined forces to bring people together from across the Leith and Edinburgh community. The aim is to provide meals that are free and inclusive, and to share in casual conversations while building understanding and friendships.
The meals also serve as a chance for community members to gain access and learn about services they don’t normally receive. Last night Police Scotland, Diabetes Scotland, Prostate Scotland, The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Services, Ripple Dental Care, Association of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Scotland, Race Equality Network Committee Member Victoria Rawnsley and the Edinburgh Interfaith Association were all in attendance to offer guidance and support.
Pitch-To-Plate takes place on the first Tuesday of every month in the Hibernian Community Hub in the Famous Five Stand at Easter Road, and there is no need to book ahead. HCF and SABS looks forward to welcoming more people in October and beyond.
