The Salvation Richmond Hill Community Church Creates Food Boxes for Fresh Home-Cooked Meals
The Salvation Army in Richmond Hill, Ontario handed out over 70 Family Food Boxes to families in need in their local area, an initiative inspired by the many food box meal preparation services that are now available on a subscription basis.
“My wife and I are subscribed to a food box service, and it’s so convenient to receive all of the ingredients in one handy box with the spices and recipes,” shared Captain Jon Savage of The Salvation Army Richmond Hill Community Church. “It makes for a no-fuss family dinner night. We were inspired by this idea and thought that it would be something we could create on our own for families in need in our community.”
At Christmas time, the Richmond Hill location packed 65 boxes in a similar effort, so the idea to continue this in a unique way was worth a try. The result was a ready-to-assemble meal in a box, complete with a recipe and a dessert.
The first box this month includes everything needed for a homemade lasagna and comes with the tinfoil pan, fresh cheese, sauce, spices, and lasagna pasta, along with a voucher, courtesy of a Rogers donation to purchase the fresh meat at the grocery store. The box also includes both a salad mix and a cake mix with icing, a delicious way to top off the meal. All ingredients were purchased the same day the box was delivered.
Captain Savage shared that the idea has brought a smile to many faces and the comfort of a home-cooked meal to those who need a little extra hope this month. “It’s great because all the recipients now have a recipe to keep so they can make it in the future. Our location in Richmond Hill doesn’t have a food bank, but this extra touch allows us to offer something different.”
The next step for The Salvation Army Richmond Hill Community Church is to put out a call to their congregation for recipe ideas. They’re looking for a variety of flavours with some vegetarian options as well.
To submit your recipes, please feel free to reach out to The Salvation Army Richmond Hill Community Church at info@rhcconline.ca.
By: Bianca Schmutz
