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Food for action

505. Manon Plouffe

Manon Plouffe opened the doors of her Bistro to provide free meals at Christmas to those in financial need and those who would otherwise spend the season alone.

Manon Plouffe, owner of the Wild Zucchini Bistro in Cockermouth, is no stranger to big giving. Following the recent floods she opened her doors again to those that were impacted by the flooding and weren’t able to cook a Christmas dinner for themselves. Manon cooks a three course meal for those turning up at the Bistro with food donated by her suppliers. The whole event is a family affair with Manon’s husband, son and daughter helping to prepare food and serve guests. For Manon, the Bistro embodies the true spirit of community as everyone pitches in to make it the huge success it is today.

Today the Prime Minister recognised Manon’s award alongside the rest of this week’s winners who also gave their time and energy to support their local community through the recent floods.

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

“This week as we mark our 500th Point of Light I am delighted to celebrate the selflessness shown by Manon and others like her who saw the need in their local community and opened up their businesses to support their neighbours. By providing meals and hot drinks for those who couldn’t cook for themselves, including on Christmas Day, Manon made a real difference in the lives of those whose homes were devastated during last winter’s floods.”

Manon said:

“Hearing that I had won a Point of Light award was so surreal – at first I thought it was a hoax. I feel so honoured to be granted this award but I would like to accept it on behalf of the whole community of Cockermouth. During the floods at Christmas, everyone pulled together and supported one another in a way that touched me deeply. I feel privileged to be a part of such an amazing community.”

The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community.

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