Fulham’s Iwobi gives food to London’s poor

Never forget where you come from. You may have become rich and famous, but if you succeeded it is because there is someone behind you who helped you. Gratitude is one of the rarest qualities nowadays. But there are those who have long memories. Like Alex Iwobi, Fulham midfielder, who wanted to give food to the London neighborhood where he grew up, Canning Town.

Canning town

—

Iwobi was born in Nigeria but moved to East London as a child. Canning Town is located in the borough of Newham, one of the London neighborhoods with the highest rate of poverty. With low-income families and individuals struggling with the cost of living, Iwobi decided to give something back. A former Arsenal star, Iwobi is now a regular at Fulham under manager Marco Silva and has scored 10 league goals since the start of last season. This week, however, he took on the role of Santa Claus with his pop-up shop “Alexpress”, where those in need can pick up food, drinks and household items – and even a Christmas turkey.

convenience store

—

“We like to do something every Christmas to try to give something back – Iwobi told BBC Africa – We opened my Alexpress, a small convenience store to try to distribute food to families who cannot buy it at Christmas. If I can help them celebrate with dignity, why not do it? My parents gave me the example. And thanks to them, being in the position I am today, I do everything I can to help those who have less than me.”