During last summer, Karina, our children, and I had the privilege of collaborating with Portamento of Hope Soup Kitchen, dedicating our time to support those in need. Alongside fellow volunteers, we gathered at the soup kitchen to begin our day of service. Here’s a glimpse into our typical experience.
Securing the Supply
We ensure all necessary ingredients and supplies are secured on an ongoing basis, depending on food availability. This includes coordinating with local food suppliers, grocery stores, and donors as deliveries arrive. Volunteers collaborate to gather fresh produce, non-perishable items, and other essentials needed for meal preparation and distribution.
Additionally, Karina Hayat and I make a weekly trip to the store, usually on Sundays, to purchase groceries and essentials for the upcoming week.
Menu Planning
We aim to provide warm and nutritionally balanced meals that cater to the community’s dietary needs and preferences while efficiently using kitchen resources. The menu for the day typically includes options such as lunch, snacks, salads, and beverages.
Meal Preparation in the Soup Kitchen
Meal preparation takes place in a designated soup kitchen or food preparation area. We select groceries and Items like bread, canned goods, and donated items that can be incorporated into the menu. Volunteers, including our children and community members, join forces to chop, cook, assemble, and package the meals.
Cleaning and Hygiene
In our soup kitchen, we ensure food safety and sanitation are strictly followed during the food preparation. Temperature controls are also strictly maintained for both cooking and storage to avoid spoilage.
After meal preparation, the kitchen area is thoroughly cleaned and sanitised to prevent contamination. This step ensures a safe and hygienic environment, ready for the next use. Volunteers work together to wash dishes, wipe down surfaces, including the sink, serving lines, and dispose of waste, separating the dry waste from the wet waste.
Loading the Food Vehicle
Once meals are prepared and packed, they are carefully loaded onto trucks or vehicles designated for distribution. This step involves organizing and securely packing the meals to prevent spillage or spoilage during transportation.
Travel to Homeless Shelters
The soup kitchen serves a population of homeless and low-income individuals, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals. Along with the volunteers, we travel to the homeless shelters, Tent City, Trailor Parks and areas with a high concentration of homeless individuals and those in need.
Distribution
Upon arrival at the distribution points, volunteers and staff set up distribution points where they hand out meals to those in need. This process typically spans 3 to 4 hours, with volunteers participating as their schedules allow, engaging in tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and distribution. This process involves interacting with recipients respectfully, ensuring everyone receives a meal, and sometimes providing additional essentials like clothing or hygiene kits.
Ensuring a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Throughout the process, the involvement of our children in the kitchen fosters a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere. They learn the values of service, empathy, and community engagement first-hand.
Ending the Day with Peace and Fulfilment
Each day concludes with a sense of peace and fulfilment that is truly unmatchable. Through this organized and compassionate approach, “100 Meals a Week” not only provides nourishing meals but also brings a sense of community, dignity, and hope among recipients and volunteers alike. If you’re interested in supporting “100 Meals a Week” through volunteering, donating food, clothes, or sanitary products, we invite you to contact us today to get involved!
For more information on how you can support 100 Meals a Week and its initiatives, please reach us at [email protected]
About 100 Meals a Week
Founded in 2006 by Zeeshan and Salma Karina Hayat, 100 Meals a Week is dedicated to addressing food insecurity with a holistic approach. This initiative focuses on providing comprehensive care to Vancouver’s DTES vulnerable population. Since its inception, 100 Meals a Week has delivered over 250,000 meals. Over the years, their efforts have expanded to include essential items such as clothing, blankets, hygiene products, and sleeping bags, making a significant positive impact on many lives.