by Ingrid Kadoke
I realized the other day, that A MEAL FOR ALL (AMFA) will be marking its 3rd anniversary this May!
As an organization we began slowly, offering free community breakfasts every Thursday at the Community Presbyterian Church in Almonte. Then about a year later, we opened The Community Pantry at the Almonte Public Library, A place where everyone can access free shelf stable groceries seven days a week. We now host a free monthly Afternoon Tea at The Sterling restaurant. This gives seniors, caregivers and their loved ones a chance to connect and socialize.
All three of these initiatives are simple in concept but have a profound impact on those who enjoy the opportunities for inclusion and support. All made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers and funded by individuals, businesses, faith groups and community organizations. A Meal for All is a quiet example of how small acts of caring build kindness, understanding and nurture new friendships throughout our community.
Some operational details
We are often asked about number of guests/participants, funding sources, how many volunteers, participate etc.…..
- The weekly Community Breakfast program has served over 7,200 meals in the past 33 months
- The Community Pantry distributes approximately $450.00 worth of food every month, (this does not include the food donations left in the pantry)
- The Afternoon Teas welcome up to 24 guests every month.
- The AMFA organization includes over 24 volunteers from a cross-section of the Mississippi Mills community.
- Our annual operating budget, of about $15,000.00, is funded by generous donations from individuals, community service organizations, sports clubs, faith groups, as well as the Town of Mississippi Mills.
- In addition, our costs are reduced by suppliers, such as Don’s Meats and The Sterling Restaurant, who offer us basic supplies at wholesale prices.
- The Lanark County Food Bank accepts donations on behalf of A Meal for All. These donations are deposited into a separate, audited “A Meal for All” account. This ensures financial oversight and offers eligible donors charitable donation receipts.
Looking Forward
AMFA strives to build community engagement by providing opportunities to gather and share nutritious food. As we move into our next year of service in community, we look forward to welcoming new and old friends to our free weekly Thursday Breakfasts, our free monthly Afternoon Teas and invite everyone to help themselves to any needed groceries from the Community Pantry.
We are also looking at new opportunities to help minimize food insecurity and build strong personal support networks throughout the Mississippi Mills community. If you have suggestions or comments, please get in touch with us at:
hello@amealforall.ca
or checkout our Face Book page A Meal for All
If you would like to financially support us with a cheque, please note the following:
Cheques should be made out to Lanark County Food Bank with a clear note indicating funds are for A MEAL FOR ALL. Cheques can be mailed to Lanark County Food Bank, 84 Mill Street Carleton Place, Ontario K7C 1T5, or dropped off on Thursday mornings between 8:30-10:30 at the 111 Church Street, Almonte
Alternately donations are also accepted electronically via:
https://lanarkcountyfoodbank.ca/donate/donate-money/ again, please make sure you indicate in the note section that the funds are to go to A MEAL FOR ALL
With Gratitude
The A MEAL FOR ALL family would like to sincerely thank everyone who participates and supports our programs. From the donors to our guests – truly an inspiring group of individuals all coming together to build a stronger community.
Please feel free to join us!
