“I am so happy that I can help the Mamas”

Ellen is actually a freelancer in the events industry. Since the coronavirus crisis, she has been unemployed. Well, at least on paper, because in the meantime, she is working tirelessly as a volunteer. Up to 50 hours a week. “I want to feel useful. And I am so happy that I can help keep Mama’s Koelkast going during this period!”At Mama’s Fridge, around 35 mothers with diverse cultural backgrounds, often facing social issues, are trained to become independent catering cooks. The women thrive and become economically self-sufficient.

Full of love and passion

Ellen (see photo on the right): “Now that the whole country is at a standstill, there is nothing to cater. That’s why we put our heads together and quickly came up with a creative alternative: takeaway and delivery menus. The purchasing is arranged, and I have built a webshop. The Mamas are back to cooking delicious meals, full of love and passion. And in shifts so that only one person is in the kitchen at a time, following enhanced hygiene rules. This way, they have the opportunity to keep working and we aim to provide the Mamas with income. Together with freelancer Jette and owner Aaliya, we are guiding this initiative as volunteers. I have some savings myself and I am very grateful that I can help the Mamas in this way.”

Pippi Longstocking

“I have never done it before, so I think I can do it.” That quote from Pippi Longstocking is so fitting for us. If I don’t know how to do something, I’ll just figure it out. What I find so remarkable now is how flexible the Moms are and how well they think along in solutions.” Ellen chuckles. She is not for nothing the down-to-earth and most pragmatic of the team. “When ideas are flying in all directions, I am the one who can bring things back to practical possibilities.”More about Mama’s Fridge can be found here

Interview: Thecla Groot Koerkamp
Photos by Mama’s Koelkast

Do you also want to use your talent or time during this turbulent period?

Check out our overview pagewww.vca.nu/coronahelpwith many possibilities to do something good for someone in need!