Food poverty is a global issue and Pakistan is no exception. People struggle to make ends meet and go without food for days. In the absence of a welfare state, many poor people rely on the good will of charities and NGOs to acquire basic food necessities. COPE has been instrumental in distributing food in both rural and urban areas of extreme poverty, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. This is an initiative that is ongoing and the food packs are usually enough to keep an average family fed for a month.
At COPE UK, our Fruit & Vegetable Market initiative is far more than a traditional market—it is a cornerstone of community empowerment and a vital resource for families striving to break the cycle of poverty. We believe that access to fresh, nutritious food is essential for health and wellbeing, and our markets are designed to make healthy eating both affordable and accessible.
By working closely with local farmers and community partners, we source a diverse range of high-quality fruits and vegetables that cater to the nutritional needs of the community. Our markets not only offer an array of fresh produce at reasonable prices but also stimulate local economies by providing sustainable income opportunities for local growers and vendors.
We are extremely proud of our Fruit and Vegetable Market in Karachi, which started in May 2020 regularly supplying fresh fruit and vegetables free of charge to those who cannot afford to pay the inflated and rising prices. COPE’s Fruit and Vegetable Market started in May 2020 and has been providing access to nutritious food for the poorest people in society.
Beyond nourishing the body, these markets serve as dynamic community hubs where residents can come together, share knowledge, and build relationships. They play a crucial role in reducing food insecurity and encouraging healthier lifestyles, ultimately contributing to the overall upliftment of the community.
Every purchase at our Fruit & Vegetable Market represents a step towards resilience and self-reliance, helping families to secure a brighter and more sustainable future.