LACIE SILVA – Editor
The Community Kitchen of Sequatchie Valley is looking to the community for support in replacing their walk-in freezer. The current walk-in freezer is old and inefficient, according to the nonprofit’s managers Cyndie and Scott Van Bavel. As managers and volunteers, the Van Bavels assist in preparing and serving meals to the community. To effectively support the community and correct issues they are facing a new walk-in freezer is needed.
As remarked by Cyndie, the kitchen needs an effective way to maintain appropriate temperatures for the cold items and a larger space to accommodate the growing needs of the community. The current freezer is not keeping frozen items cold enough and as such they thaw too rapidly to store or preserve and prevent food borne illnesses. Cyndie expressed her passion to support the community but to also keep everyone safe.
The Community Kitchen, operating monthly, distributes blessing boxes filled with essential food items to those in need, providing over 350 boxes and serving 600-700 hot meals. Diverse menus, including items like barbeque pulled pork and fish taco bowls, offer a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, and desserts. This initiative supports nearly 1000 individuals and families, with 80-85% served on-site and the rest delivered to seniors and others in remote areas by dedicated volunteers throughout the community. Volunteers not only provide nourishment but also extend respect, kindness, and prayers, ensuring a holistic approach to community care.
Acquiring a new walk-in freezer is vital for the Community Kitchen to not only accept donations currently being refused, but also to expand its capacity to receive and store more food donations. With increased storage, the kitchen aims to extend its assistance to a greater number of individuals and families each month. Additionally, the new freezer would contribute to energy cost savings, enhancing the efficiency of operations.
The Community Kitchen is asking for support in raising $20,000 to fund the acquisition, delivery, and installation of the new walk-in freezer. Every contribution, regardless of size, significantly impacts the goal. Visit https://tithe.ly/give?c=377518 or scan the QR code to donate online.
For more information and questions please contact the Van Bavel Kitchen Managers at scott.vanbavel@gmail.com and follow on Facebook to keep up with the Community Kitchen and future events.
The Marion Tribune – November 30, 2023
