The Karing Kitchen provides hot lunches to up to 100 people in need each day.
It is run out of the basement of St. John’s United Church in Moncton.
The Karing Kitchen was founded in 1983 by five area local churches due to the recession.
Executive Director Bruce Lawson told us that’s when food banks and soup kitchens started in Canada.
“The need has always been there. They serve hot lunches five days a week from 11 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., Monday to Friday, no questions asked. If you show up, you’re going to get a hot meal,” says Lawson.
He adds they recently launched the Lunch on You sponsorship program.
Daily Sustainer – $150: Your daily contribution ensures a nutritious lunch for someone in need. This level is perfect for individuals or small businesses looking to make a positive impact daily.
Hunger Eradicator – $1,000: Cover the cost of lunches for an entire week and become a Hunger Eradicator. This level is tailored for businesses and larger organizations seeking to substantially impact the fight against hunger.
Nutrition Champion – $3,500: Become a Nutrition Champion and support a month of daily nutritious meals. Ideal for businesses, community leaders, and philanthropic organizations committed to driving positive change.
“It was an initiative from our board of directors. There’s a great need out there for not only food but further services. The mental health side of things and the addiction side of things are way out of control. This is an awareness thing, and it’s a recognition. We get donations regularly from service groups, organizations, or individuals. This is a recognition. Instead of just giving us the $500, we recognize you,” Lawson says.
He says the response to the new program has been great so far, and many don’t want the recognition. He has had some money coming in anonymously.
“The money will be used for general operation because we have many costs here. Food is just part of it. Some people don’t realize there are other things. We have to buy floor soap and buy paper towels, and those other operating expenses. It’s the daily costs to preserve and prepare that food as well,” Lawson says.
For those who would like to donate, you can e-transfer funds to karing.kitchen@yahoo.ca, or you can write a cheque, or through the organization canadahelps.org.
Lawson says they also have openings for volunteers, for those who are available a few hours per week to help serve or prep vegetables.
If you would like to donate food, you are asked to contact the Karing Kitchen first because Lawson says there are specific items they are always in need of including evaporated milk, cornstarch, and rice.
