On Friday, 22nd November, Unitas Youth Zone was delighted to join the celebrations for the grand opening of the new Tesco store on Burnt Oak High Street. This was a particularly special moment for the community, as Burnt Oak holds a significant place in Tesco’s history: the area was home to Tesco’s first-ever self-service supermarket, which opened in 1948. That store revolutionised shopping in the UK, and its legacy lives on with this exciting new opening in the same vibrant neighbourhood.
Along with the Mayor of Barnet; Tony Vourou and local school Barnfield Primary, Unitas was honoured to be invited to this celebration, highlighting the strong connection between the new Tesco store and the local community. Our staff and young members attended the event, which was filled with energy, excitement, and smiles. The occasion was made even more memorable when Tesco generously gifted Unitas with a £500 cheque to support the work we do for young people and the wider Barnet community.
Speaking to the new Tesco store manager; Rinkoo Kansara, we asked why it was so important to include Unitas in this landmark moment. Here’s what she had to say: “When I was going through charities around the communities, I found you the most interesting because you are helping the youth, which inspired me”
Unitas takes immense pride in being a pillar of the Burnt Oak community. This area is diverse, lively, and full of potential, and we’re thrilled to see Tesco recognising the value of supporting local organisations like ours.
“The arrival of a new Tesco in Burnt Oak, the historic location of the very first Tesco store, is exciting for our community. We are grateful to Tesco for their generous donation, and look forward to deepening our partnership with them in the months to come” – Robin Moss, Unitas Chief Executive.
Of course, our staff and youth workers were also excited about the new store, after all, a convenient place to grab shopping after a busy day is always welcome! As they say, every little helps!
Supporting the local community
As well as a safe place full of opportunity for young people, Unitas Youth Zone also provides an inclusive environment that benefits the entire community through a range of programmes and initiatives designed to support and uplift people of all ages.
Like our Warm Hubs on Wednesdays in partnership with Age UK and Cadent, where older members of the community can socialise and take part in activities such as chair-obics, yoga, table tennis, and more and enjoy soup, bread and tea! Or the Development and Learning Opportunities (DALO) sessions, where adults with learning difficulties, have access to a supportive space for them to enjoy activities, share lunch, and make use of Unitas’ facilities.
Together, we make a difference
The grand opening of Tesco is a wonderful reminder of what we can achieve when businesses and organisations come together to support the community. With Tesco’s support, Unitas will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of young people and the wider Barnet community.
If you’d like to help us make a difference or learn more about how you can support Unitas, visit our Support Us page.
Whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your contribution helps us create a brighter future for all.
Let’s keep building a stronger, more connected community, together.
