Sikh takeaway owners use 'langar' philosophy as inspiration to deliver more than 1,000 free meals to key workers and vulnerable people during lockdown

A Washington takeaway has clocked up a total 1,000 free meals given out to elderly, vulnerable and disabled people as well as key workers during the coronavirus crisis.
Anthony Singh, part-owner of Bits 'n' PizzasAnthony Singh, part-owner of Bits 'n' Pizzas
Anthony Singh, part-owner of Bits 'n' Pizzas

Since the lockdown began, Bits ‘n’ Pizzas, in Albany have given away free hot meals to NHS workers, supermarket staff, banks, garages, care homes, pharmacies and schools as well as vulnerable and elderly people who couldn’t leave their homes.

Owners say the act of generosity was a way for the takeaway to give back to residents who have supported them since their opening in 2016, and a way to say thank you to NHS staff and other key workers for all they are doing during the crisis.

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Daljit Singh Rai, who has been supporting the family-run business with deliveries, said: “What we are doing is nothing compared to the magnificent job the NHS frontline staff are doing. They are putting their lives at risk in hospitals.

Staff at Washington Lodge nursing home were gifted free meals by Bits 'n' PizzasStaff at Washington Lodge nursing home were gifted free meals by Bits 'n' Pizzas
Staff at Washington Lodge nursing home were gifted free meals by Bits 'n' Pizzas

“The inspiration for free meals comes from our religion. The term ‘langar’ is used in sikhism for the free community kitchen. We brought that inspiration to our Washington community.”

The takeaway have also got the community involved in helping with deliveries with volunteering their services and asking for nominations of key workers who deserve a free surprise pizza.

Daljit added: “The reaction has been overwhelming, all our staff feel very humbled with the hundreds of messages of support. together we can all overcome this.”

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Staff at Aldi were given free meals by Bits 'n' PizzasStaff at Aldi were given free meals by Bits 'n' Pizzas
Staff at Aldi were given free meals by Bits 'n' Pizzas

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