Check this out for a foodbank deposit!

A community project developed only a few weeks ago is already bearing fruit – having just supplied an Oldham foodbank with a bumper harvest of healthy food.

Just Breathe was formed by private maths tutor Mohammed Afuz Miah, who learned that his life was in mortal danger from unhealthy eating and a lack of exercise last November, when he was aged just 46.

A Valentine’s Day appointment with his GP convinced him to improve his own and his community’s well-being and he has since established Just Breathe, run a half-marathon for charity and lost a staggering FOUR stone.

And one of the first good causes to benefit from his fundraising work is the Oldham Foodbank based within Oldham Leisure Centre, who were left breathless when they saw a van-load of nutritional fodder collected by Mohammed and his team.

“Between March and May, the foodbank has fed around 5,000 people in the borough of Oldham,” said Father Tom Davis, whose parish of St Margaret’s, Hollinwood run the good concern.

“Shortly after my ordination, I became known as the 'Pot Noodle Priest' because I would give those who knocked at my door a Pot Noodle.

"From tins of soup with no labels through to boxes of food, we have now reached the point where we have this huge facility – such is the need.”

Just Breathe’s devotion to the foodbank is part of an ongoing programme of good works aimed at helping the community in Oldham.

Coppice-based Mohammed acknowledges that previous charitable acts carried out by the South Asian community have largely benefited projects overseas.

“This is my home and charity begins at home, besides, I want to put Oldham on the map,” said Mohammed.

Together with right-hand-man Kibria Choudhury, Mohammed has mobilised volunteers and businesses to back his dream of a happier, fitter, Oldham.

Just Breathe wants to organise activities and events that embrace all abilities, genders, and backgrounds.

News of Just Breathe’s work is beginning to attract the attention of decision-makers, including Councillor Mohon Ali, Deputy Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills.  

Said Councillor Ali: “This is a really great initiative and Just Breathe responded to a need in the community.

"The COVID-19 situation means that sadly more people than ever have to be reliant on a foodbank.

"We are so grateful to organisations such as Just Breathe who are going out to businesses and individuals and getting them to donate to Oldham Foodbank.”

For more on information on Just Breathe, visit their dedicated Facebook page: @JustBreatheStayActive  

To donate to Oldham Foodbank, click here

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