Despite the uncertainty and stress of the COVID-19 crisis, many volunteers financially supported by One Housing Group and persistently led by Island Network and Rakesh Patel steeped up to create positive change in the community through ensuring the most vulnerable community members have food during the pandemic and lockdowns.

The collective dedication has once again demonstrated the power of volunteering. The good citizens of the Isle of Dogs are inspired by the leadership and the resilience of the volunteers who refused to let this crisis break their spirit. Instead, they volunteered and distributed over 2000 bags of different food and took care of the most vulnerable members of their community.

The chair of Island Network, Maium Miah Talukdar, said that he is proud of the community's response which is a bright spot amid the current pandemic.

COVID-19's impact worldwide has left many looking for support in various ways. The Island Network has made a positive impact in helping distribute food packages to those in need since the virus outbreak started in 2020. Led by a combination of residents and businesses in the area, more than 2000 bags of food have already been distributed, with the plans for more on the way.

Property tycoon Rakesh Patel from Cyclops Mews is one of many who have donated time, energy, and money towards this effort. He believes that during a time where everyone is impacted in some way, those who can give back and prop up others are responsible for making a stronger community. The food distribution process takes time from start to finish, but Patel and other volunteers are happy to see such a positive impact on the local community. Building a stronger community will make an impact that lasts much longer than the pandemic.