CONNECTOR.AE 58 CONNECTOR.AE 59 Lifestyle Lifestyle In 2021, through a collaborative effort between Nefsy Portal, Tarahum Organisation, UAE Food Bank, and Food ATM, an astonishing milestone was achieved. Together, they secured a place in the Guinness World Records by delivering over 50,000 community meals in just 8 hours, leaving an indelible mark of compassion and achievement. Underlining this remarkable achievement, Ayesha Khan remarked, “In 2022, we received recognition from the United Nations Global Compact, and as of today, I am honoured to serve as a member of the board of directors for UNGC UAE.” Ayesha Khan’s current objective is to establish at least one Food ATM in every emirate, and she aspires to accomplish this within the next two years. As of now, the UAE boasts four Food ATM branches, each offering a diverse menu of wholesome and nutritious meals. With options priced at Dhs 1, individuals can choose from a selection that includes sandwiches, salads, pasta, noodles, samosas, and pakoras. For Dhs 2, there are choices like vegetarian meat, thick mango shakes, corn flakes chaat, and fish fry. Stepping up to Dhs 3, the offerings extend to include dishes like chicken biryani, pulao, vegetable and non-vegetable sabji with roti and paratha. The Dhs 3 meals are accompanied by a complimentary water bottle and a small gift. Lastly, for a mere 50 fils, patrons can savour items such as tea, coffee, buttermilk, popcorn, and naan khataai, providing a range of affordable and satisfying options for everyone. Food ATM is steadfast in its commitment to delivering top-notch, nutritious food without any compromise on quality. However, the challenge lies in the escalating costs of raw materials, which seem to surge with each passing quarter, while people’s incomes remain relatively stagnant. The post-pandemic era has worsened this already challenging situation. Hence, to address this financial strain, Food ATM has made necessary adjustments to its meal offerings. Elaborating further on this matter, Ayesha Khan expressed, “Food ATM’s primary mission is to combat hunger, and our goal is to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry due to the high cost of food. In response to the escalating expenses, we’ve made strategic menu changes, such as substituting exotic vegetables and meats with more costeffective options like chicken, boiled eggs, mixed vegetables, and others. This enables us to minimise expenditures on raw materials while continuing to offer hot, wholesome, and high-quality meals to individuals with limited incomes, all within the price range of 50 fils to Dhs 3. Our ultimate aim is to nourish both stomachs and hearts, all without compromising on quality. My dedicated team and I are wholeheartedly committed to this cause.” Ayesha Khan’s mission is undeniably praiseworthy, serving as a source of inspiration for all of us to contribute to our
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