Everyone needs a safe place where they can belong. One of Food Stash’s 35 community partner organizations is The Kettle Society, a registered charity that’s been working for over 45 years to enhance the quality of life for individuals living with mental illness,* substance use, poverty and/or homelessness. Food Stash regularly delivers nutritious surplus food - including vegetables, cooking supplies, and baked goods - to the Kettle for its programs.
The members of The Kettle Society come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Being a member (which only costs $1 a year) grants access to special events at The Kettle Society, such as an Annual Summer Picnic, January Dinner and Dance, Kettle Camping, and the Annual General Meeting. Members can choose if they participate in the Kettle’s lunch program or use various services.
Food Stash team members recently visited the Kettle to see first-hand how their programs make an impact, and to volunteer for an afternoon.
Food Stash team members Anna, Chris, Jenn and Steph visiting The Kettle
The Food Stash team learned from mental health worker and cook Audrey that food is one small but important part of the Kettle’s programs and services, from enrichment programs, supportive housing, a Skills Esteem & Employment Development program, and a lot more.
Members and program participants at the Kettle can count on being able to get nutritious and comforting meals to support and nourish them on their journeys. The Meal Program is one of the most popular services. Costing only $1 (members can complete chores after lunch instead of paying cash), it includes tea and coffee, snacks, fruit, and a healthy lunch every day of the week.
The Kettle offers safety and refuge, “Whether it’s a warm meal on a cold day, support from a mental health worker, or a safe place to call home.”
In addition to the community meals served in a bright dining room with lively conversation, the Kettle also runs a Recovery Cafe. Whether in crisis, in long-term recovery, during a difficult life change, or in mental health transition, the Café is there as a refuge of support, care and community.
“In a culture where so much revolves around socializing over a cup of coffee or tea, our name represented exactly what we hoped to infuse into an organization: friendship, caring, family, belonging, and sharing.
At The Kettle Society, we meet people wherever they are at in their journey towards health, wellness, recovery, and well-being. We offer support, a helping hand, resources/referrals, or simply a safe space to come in from the outdoors and enjoy a cup of coffee.”
Audrey with a delicious meal cooked and served at the Kettle.
Food Stash is happy to partner with amazing organizations like The Kettle, and is so grateful for the life-changing work they do in the Vancouver community.
From now until December 31, PCI Developments will be matching all donations to Food Stash, up to $75,000. When you donate to Food Stash, you're not only supporting initiatives like our home delivery program and rescued food market, you’re also allowing us to support places such as the Kettle Society.
*The Kettle uses the expression "mental illness" to relate information to the general public. They acknowledge the stigmas and barriers associated with the use of this language and encourage you to find out more about the fight for mental health for everyone by checking out inspiring stories on their website or signing up for their newsletter.