Building community
Building Community Through Cooking: FEASTED and YMCA join forces for the Together Kitchen
Since February 2024, FEASTED and YMCANS have been teaming up to create a unique and impactful community cooking initiative, funded by The National Lottery Community Awards For All Fund. This program has welcomed young YMCA residents into the FEASTED kitchen for a hands-on journey in culinary skills, nutrition, and community support. This project was designed to empower young people through the art of cooking. Now well into its second round, the project is supporting an enthusiastic group of young participants who are honing their skills, developing creative recipes, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others in their community.
From Cooking Skills to Kindness in the Community
This project is more than just a cooking class; it’s about building confidence, expanding horizons, and promoting community spirit. During each ten-week round, young participants have worked to develop nutritious recipes, then going on to explore ingredients produce delicious dishes. Under the guidance of our experienced chefs and workshop facilitators, the participants are discovering the joy of cooking from scratch, the art of balancing flavours, and the importance of nutrition.
But the impact of the project goes well beyond the participants themselves. Every week, the group prepares up to 100 meal kits, which are then distributed free of charge through the Pantry at YMCA to local community members. Each kit includes fresh ingredients and simple, easy-to-follow recipes developed by the participants themselves, making nutritious and delicious meals accessible to all.
Extending the Experience Online with Recipe Videos
To accompany the meal kits, FEASTED has created a series of YouTube videos featuring participants demonstrating each week’s recipe. These videos make the project’s reach even broader by providing visual guidance for those cooking with the meal kits, enabling community members to learn alongside the young residents. The videos help break down the recipes step-by-step, increasing accessibility to people of all abilities and offering helpful tips along the way. This digital component has not only enhanced the experience but also serves as a resource that can be revisited by anyone looking to recreate the meals at home.
Building Skills for the Future
As the project moves closer to the conclusion of its second round, the participants are gaining skills that go beyond cooking. They’re learning teamwork, building confidence, and growing a sense of purpose through their contributions to the community. By preparing meal kits and sharing their recipes, they’re not only supporting the wellbeing of their neighbours but also developing skills that can serve them in the future, whether in hospitality or any field they choose to pursue.
A Shared Goal of Empowerment and Wellness
The FEASTED and YMCA collaboration shows the power of community partnerships and the difference they can make when resources are invested in young people. By nurturing cooking skills, providing nutritious food, and fostering a supportive environment, this project is contributing to a more resilient and connected community. And, as it continues, its success serves as a reminder that with a little creativity and support, initiatives like this can transform lives, one meal at a time.
For those interested in following along, check out FEASTED’s YouTube channel, where you can find the recipe videos made by participants and perhaps try out a few meals yourself!
www.youtube.com/@feastedacademy