Wills Transfer had the wonderful opportunity to attend Soup Sessions in Perth, hosted by Judy Dempsey (Community Chef) with The Table – Community Food Centre.
“The Table’s mission is to foster a community that collaborates and empowers each other to improve access to healthy food, improve food skills and food literacy, advocate for individual well-being, and educate, engage and advocate on social policies to address food insecurity and poverty” (The Table’s Mission).
The evening started off with introductions of the kitchen volunteers for the night and then with an explanation of what The Table offers to the community; Good Food Bank, community gardens, kitchen programs, social justice and other services.
The Wills Transfer team was split into groups at different prep stations…but first, everyone needed a special apron and hat!!
Great looking crew with their hats and aprons.
The project of the night was to prepare and start cooking a lovely vegetable and chicken soup that would be served to the community the next day. Prep stations included onions…lots of onions, celery, carrots, cabbage, kale, turnip, and chicken. Our Community Chef, Judy, was excellent in offering direction in the presentation of the vegetables, kitchen knife techniques and safety, and keeping a positive and light environment for everyone. Look at all of the smiles!
Cabbage station
Turnip station
Lots and lots of carrots
The chicken station
Once all of the ingredients were simmering away on the stove (3 large pot fulls), the Wills Transfer crew was able to tour the downstairs where the food bank operates.
Food Bank volunteer, Phil, did an excellent job in explaining how the Food Bank offers a positive shopping experience for locals who use the services. It is organized like a grocery store and divided into food sections (fruits/veggies, grains, protein, canned food and more). Each family is welcomed and is given a shopping card that is reflective of their family size. They get to choose what they need!
To end the night, the Wills Transfer crew was able to enjoy a small bowl of soup together and experience the positive atmosphere The Table can offer. Who knew that making soup could be this much fun!
Thank you Judy and to The Table for everything you do!
