In the heart of Bristol, a powerful movement is taking place around dinner tables across the city. The MAZI Project, a youth-led charity founded four years ago, is transforming the lives of disadvantaged young people aged 16-25 through the universal language of food. At Latcham, we're proud to be playing a role in supporting this inspiring initiative.
MAZI was founded in response to the Free School Meal scandal of January 2021. When inadequate food hampers provided by the government sparked national outrage, founder Melanie channeled her frustration into action. Rather than simply joining the chorus of disapproval, she created a solution—one meal kit at a time.
MAZI focuses on young people who face significant challenges:
Through partnerships with approximately 20 charities across Bristol, vulnerable young people are referred to MAZI's programmes where they find not just nourishment, but community.
Our journey with MAZI began when Melanie attended a Peer Group meeting where she passionately pitched the project to local businesses. At Latcham, we immediately recognised the value and potential of MAZI's work and committed to supporting their mission.
Our contribution includes a £2,000 financial donation to help fund their operations, professional print services for recipe cards that accompany each meal kit, and ongoing exploration of potential fundraising initiatives.
Through our print expertise, we've helped transform MAZI's recipes from simple instructions into professional, durable resources that young people can treasure.
Every Tuesday, young people receive meal kits, working with local producers ensures the quality and sustainability of each ingredient, supporting both their participants and the local food economy.
“The boxes have completely changed my life. The boxes have changed my confidence. They feed me every day. 'I've gained so many skills and it's kept me going. Being able to keep myself”
Each young person receives their own MAZI ring binder filled with printed recipe cards produced by our team at Latcham. These aren't just recipes—they're professional-quality guides that build confidence in the kitchen. The durable ring binder format allows participants to add new recipes over time, creating a personalised resource they can rely on for years to come. This tangible, lasting element of the program represents how skills and knowledge, once shared, become permanent tools for independence.
We offer monthly supper clubs where connections are forged, cooking classes that build skills and confidence, and longer programs that open doors to employment opportunities.
''I'm eating more and better, so I'm less depressed, and then I can do more things. I love unpacking the boxes - it's really cute. It's lovely to think that people have taken the time to pack it all so nicely, it feels like a gift. Especially if you don't have family here - it makes me feel like I'm not left alone.''
With support from Latcham and other partners, MAZI has:
''I feel better about myself, and it gives me something to do in the house, which can be fun. I don't leave the house, so having something to do from home is really important.''
Take Callum, for example. Struggling with severe anxiety, he initially couldn't bear to leave his home. When first introduced to MAZI's 'Nourishing Cooking Course,' he was hesitant to participate. But with gentle encouragement, he took that first brave step.
Today, these weekly cooking sessions have become the highlight of Callum's week—a testament to how breaking bread together can break down barriers.
“MAZI is the only organisation which supports me.”
At Latcham, we believe in using our resources and expertise to make a meaningful difference in our community. MAZI's approach aligns perfectly with our values of:
By providing both financial support and practical resources through our print services, we're helping MAZI create not just meals, but lasting impact.
MAZI envisions a Bristol where fresh, nutritious, and sustainable food is accessible to everyone. By collaborating with Bristol's independent food sector, local community members, and partner charities like Latcham, they're creating inclusive environments where vulnerable young people can experience the power of food and feel part of Bristol's thriving community.
MAZI is growing, and needs ongoing support to reach more young people in need:
Beyond our own contribution of £2,000 and print services, Latcham is proud to stand alongside other donors who have contributed a van, insurance, mentoring, and £15,000 in additional funding.
We use the dinner table and the act of breaking bread together to reduce isolation, build confidence, and make those in need feel cared for and extraordinary. At Latcham, we're proud to support MAZI in this mission, and we invite other businesses to join us.
"I strongly believe and feel that sharing food and cooking for people or being cooked for is a sign of love. The dining table is an opportunity for connections to be made, to feel included and to feel taken care of. This is MAZI's aim; to spread the love we all need to those who need it most." — Melanie, Founder of MAZI
To learn more about how Latcham supports community initiatives like The MAZI Project, or to inquire about joining us in supporting this cause, please contact our team.