When I moved to Keene a few years ago, I wanted to find a way to know my community, so I became a volunteer at The Community Kitchen. I found my spot on the distribution line handing out fresh produce every Thursday, and I came to really love the people who I saw every week. I got to know their names and their personal stories, their challenges. We shared recipes with one another. Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE produce; growing, harvesting, and eating it. I never thought about sauteeing radishes, until a pantry guest suggested I try it. You learn something new everyday. 

A few months later, I accepted a position as the Gleaning Coordinator. I was fortunate to go out with other likeminded volunteers that felt passionate about rescuing fresh produce from local farms to bring back to our community here at the Kitchen. How wonderful to be a witness to the generosity of our local farms.

Eventually, an opening came up for a Communications and Development Assistant in this place that I have come to know and love. I jumped at the opportunity, and feel so privileged to be able to work with The Community Kitchen. And yes, I am still the Gleaning Coordinator as well. It's a nonprofit. Need I say more?

I am seeing and understanding now, what it takes to run this organization that runs with a very small staff and a LOT of volunteers. We have numerous year round programs: Hot meals 5 nights a week; market style pantry distribution two days a week, a mobile outreach/pop up pantry, and a home delivery program. We also just purchased a minibus/food truck and have great plans for that in the future. 

We do not receive federal or state funding and so we rely on financial donations to be able to purchase the large amounts of food that we need for these programs. Like many of the people we serve, we too, are feeling the pinch from and increase in fuel and food costs. And yet, we are seeing more and more people coming to our doors who are seeking food assistance.

So here, finally, is the ask. Would you please consider donating to this fundraiser to help support an organization that is near and dear to my heart; an organization that does the work to see to it that people don't go hungry?

I appreciate you donating whatever amount you think is appropriate. 

Another ask: would you share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. We are always stronger when we work together.

Thank you, everyone. I appreciate you and hope you are all well.

Alicia