Feeding Families with H.O.P.E.
This past September, Harvest Table Culinary Group at Wake Forest University partnered with H.O.P.E (Help Our People Eat) of Winston Salem and Campus Kitchen programs.
Here’s a glance at just some of the challenges facing the families of Cleveland Avenue:
- 100% are below Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Rent begins at $50.00 and many families apply for Winston-Salem Housing Authority vouchers to cover those costs.
- Public schools are Title 1 with students receiving free breakfast and lunch.
- The neighborhood is also considered 1 of 40 food deserts within Winston-Salem with the closest grocery store being slightly over 4 miles away.
Connections were made at the most basic human level between youth who are at-risk for hunger and Harvest Table employees... I am rarely at a loss for words but I am still in awe of the willingness and desire of Harvest Table employees and volunteers to participate. The night was something magical.
Meg Morosco,
Director at H.O.P.E.
Together, we served over 300 delicious, nutrient-packed meals to families who otherwise may not have had a chance to eat that evening. Additionally, Harvest Table chefs provided each family with two freshly prepared frozen meals to take home and dietitians provided an educational program that gave families tips for healthy eating on a budget. Families were provided with potted herbs and knowledge on how fresh herbs can enhance their meals. Employee volunteers also donated school supplies, healthy snacks and cases of bottled water.
Harvest Table is devoted to creating authentic experiences that center around quality service, healthy choices, and wholesome ingredients. Our teams are part of a diverse range of communities, all of which we hope to enrich with memorable experiences that help develop meaningful connections through food. If you’re interested in learning more about our efforts to make a difference in our local communities, you can read more here.
