Nourishing Our Community: A Grateful Tribute to Our Partners
Nourishing Our Community: A Grateful Tribute to Our Partners
At the heart of the Rockbridge Community Table's mission lies a simple yet powerful truth: the strength of our community is deeply intertwined with the bonds we forge with our dedicated partners. Through their unwavering support, we are able to fulfill our commitment to providing nourishment, unity, and hope to our neighbors in need.
A Helping Hand from Washington and Lee Campus Kitchen
Every Wednesday and Friday during lunchtime, the Washington and Lee Campus Kitchen becomes an indispensable ally in our mission. Their goal? To strengthen bodies, empower minds, and build communities through the power of food.
Ryan Brink, Assistant Director of the Shepherd Program and Campus Kitchen Coordinator, explains, "A large part of the programming we facilitate in order to work towards this goal is the preparation and delivery of hot meals, around 250 each week, to various community partners around Rockbridge County."
The challenge, however, lies in sourcing the ingredients required for such a substantial undertaking. Fortunately, the Lexington Farmers' Market has been a steadfast supporter for over a decade. Brink states, “Generous local farmers have consistently donated unsold produce to the Campus Kitchen, adding up to over 400 pounds of local goodness during the 22-23 fiscal year.”
These fresh ingredients have been thoughtfully prepared and served at our Wednesday and Friday Community Table lunches, delivered to group homes with the Rockbridge Area Community Services Board, and enjoyed as snacks at the Lexington City Office on Youth afterschool program. In total, these deliveries contributed to over 12,000 hot meals served in the 22-23 fiscal year.
"The Campus Kitchen is extremely grateful for the continued support of our area farmers and the Lexington Farmers’ Market," said Brink.
Local Partners Make Wednesday Dinners Special
At the Portable Area Community Table Wednesday night dinners, the local partners help make these evenings exceptional. We extend our deepest gratitude to:
Lexington Catering Company
Bistro on Main
Full Circle Catering
Sweet Treats Bakery
Devils' Backbone
CHEFS Catering
Hogback Mountain
Their generosity and collaboration have helped transform Wednesday dinners into moments of togetherness, where everyone can enjoy a delicious meal and companionship.
As we reflect on the vital role our community partners play in fulfilling our mission, we are reminded of the incredible strength that can be found in unity. Together, we continue to nourish our community, one meal at a time. We are deeply thankful for the support of the Washington and Lee Campus Kitchen, the Lexington Farmers' Market, and our local partners who stand by our side as we work to make our community a better place for all.
