UPDATE: The Grateful Hearts Program in Bennington is urgently preparing 1,500 ready-to-eat meals for families facing food insecurity this holiday season. Organizer and director Kate Ebbott led a team of dedicated volunteers on Wednesday, working tirelessly to create nutritionally dense meals aimed at supporting the community.
With the holidays fast approaching, Ebbott and her team were engaged in their weekly “Chop and Chats,” where massive pots of fresh, colorful ingredients were being transformed into wholesome meals. These meals will be distributed across the Greater Bennington area, including local food pantries such as the Greater Bennington Community Services and HIS Pantry at Saint Francis deSales.
“We’re currently serving 1,500 meals a week, with about 200 meals going to the Sunday Supper at the Second Congregational Church in Bennington,” Ebbott explained. This surge in production reflects a significant increase from just 600 meals a week, highlighting the growing need within the community.
Grateful Hearts, founded in 2001, aims to combat food insecurity by providing healthy, plant-forward meals instead of empty calories. “Our philosophy is clean, colorful, and close,” Ebbott stated, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in their offerings.
In an effort to minimize food waste and maximize nutritional value, Ebbott explained how the program sources surplus produce from local farms. “Only 43% of farms in Vermont turn a profit each year, leading to a staggering 40% of farm produce going unsold,” she noted. By securing “seconds”—produce that may not meet grocery store standards but is still nutritionally sound—Grateful Hearts is able to create innovative meals while supporting local agriculture.
The menu for the week of November 17 includes enticing dishes such as beef brisket with pickled cucumbers, roasted root vegetables in tomato sauce, and butternut squash soup. Ebbott and her team leverage the unexpected nature of their ingredients to craft unique recipes that cater to a variety of tastes.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the demand for these meals continues to rise. Ebbott revealed that people are increasingly reaching out to access the program’s offerings, with 17 local organizations currently benefiting from their services. The organization is committed to nourishing the community, and volunteer opportunities are available for those looking to help.
Grateful Hearts is calling for community support as they continue their mission. Volunteer roles include meal preparation, packaging, and fundraising efforts to ensure they can meet the growing need. For those interested in contributing, more information is available at gratefulheartsbennington.org.
As the holiday season unfolds, Grateful Hearts stands at the forefront of community care, exemplifying the spirit of compassion through action. Their efforts not only provide meals but also foster a sense of togetherness in a time when many are in need.
