Fat Macy's celebrity-backed crowdfund campaign surpasses target

Fat Macy’s hoped to raise £55,141 to fund a site in Peckham, which will act as a multi-purpose community space, housing both training facilities and a standalone all-day restaurant. When the deadline hit, the enterprise had slightly surpassed its target, having raised £55,635 from 277 backers.

Fat Macy’s works with young Londoners living in temporary accommodation by training them in hospitality and cooking skills.

The social enterprise provides “a pathway to independent living by inviting their trainee chefs to host pop-up supper club events across the capital.”

By working, Fat Macy’s staff earn credits, which are used towards a step-by-step programme to living independently and housing deposits. Those who volunteer for over 150 hours are eligible to apply for a housing deposit grant which gives them an opportunity to move into their own flat.

The proposed south east London venue will serve food coffee, breakfast and lunch. In the evenings it will become a bar that serves “British tapas-style plates”. Ethical food and drinks providers will be invited to host tastings.

Fat Macy’s currently runs supper clubs serving three-course meals, prepared by young London trainees. Each event is themed and consists of a variety of cuisines (previous supper clubs have included Mexican, Jamaican and Middle Eastern). The enterprise also caters for corporate events.

The permanent site will allow the enterprise to help 12 to 20 young Londoners in temporary accommodation make the transition to permanent residence each year.

Fat Macy’s crowdfunding campaign bid was supported and shared by a host of food-centric celebrities, including Jay Rayner, Nigella Lawson and Marina O’Loughlin.

“Speechless… we raised £55,635” Fat Macy’s posted on Twitter. “”Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to all legends who donated.”