The Dish | November 2023

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September At Just Food

• Households Served - 2,094

• Individuals Served - 4,830

• New Shopper Households - 356

• Number of Volunteer Hours - 1,832.25

• Number of Volunteers - 166

• Average Hours / Volunteer - 11

• Pounds of Recovered Food - 78,480

• Pounds of Food Donated by Harvesters - 15,335

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Budget Recipe of the Month

Twice Baked Potatoes

Looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal to warm your taste buds this fall? This month's Budget Recipe of the Month is Twice Baked Potatoes. These hearty spuds are a perfect combination of crispy potato skins and a creamy, cheesy, bacon-infused interior that's sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

To make these delectable Twice Baked Potatoes, you'll need just a handful of affordable ingredients, including russet potatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. The recipe not only delivers mouthwatering flavors but also showcases Just Food's commitment to providing cost-effective yet flavorful meals. This dish is easy to prepare, and its versatility makes it a fantastic side or a stand-alone dish for a cozy family dinner. So, fire up your oven and follow the simple instructions to enjoy this delightful budget-friendly recipe that's sure to become a household favorite.

Estimated Cost: $7.80/recipe - $0.98/serving

Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

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Development News

Don't miss out on your tickets to Game Gala!

We're quickly approaching our favorite event of the year and we don't want you to miss out on the fun. Get your tickets to join us at Game Gala on Friday, November 10th as we, play exciting games, eat scrumptious food, and celebrate with our community.

To secure your spot at the 2023 Game Gala, click the link below and grab your tickets today!

Get Your Tickets

For any inquiries or additional information, please feel free to reach out to our Director of Development, Ali Curbow, at development@justfoodks.org. Let's make the 2023 Game Gala a night to remember!

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Volunteer of the Month - Kevin Barnes

Kevin Barnes is our wonderful October Volunteer of the Month! Kevin first began volunteering with us three years ago, and took a break before restarting just a few months ago. His motto is he's here for "whoever needs me -- whenever, however." He takes up any task that needs to be done in the warehouse or pantry, and especially enjoys sharing his knowledge about produce (and how to cook with unusual vegetables) with the shoppers.

His favorite part of being here is interacting with the people, whether volunteers, staff or shoppers. In his free time he likes to garden, and he also hosts a support group on social media. Just recently he walked his first 5k! He's a lifelong learner and always willing to try new activities. Thank you for all your contributions Kevin, we appreciate you!

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Food Justice Partner of the Month: Corpus Christi Catholic Parish

We are thrilled to announce Corpus Christi Catholic Parish as our Community Partner of the Month for November. Their long-term commitment to alleviating hunger and food insecurity is unmatched.

Since Just Food was founded, in 2009, Corpus Christi has been a steadfast partner, pioneering the concept of a continuous food drive within our network. Month after month, their congregation generously contributes between 500 to 600 pounds of non-perishable food items. This consistent dedication has yielded incredible results, with a staggering 7,784 pounds of donated food in 2022 alone. And this year, we're witnessing even more extraordinary generosity, with a remarkable 5,000 pounds of donations already, setting a promising trajectory to surpass last year's record-breaking totals.

Corpus Christi's enduring support plays a vital role in ensuring our shelves remain well-stocked throughout the year, making a tangible difference in the lives of Just Food Shoppers. We extend our heartfelt thanks to them for embodying the spirit of community and compassion.

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Get to Know the Just Food Staff

Wayne Briggs - Warehouse & Waste Reduction Manager

Meet Wayne Briggs, the dynamo behind the scenes at Just Food, where he serves as the Warehouse & Waste Reduction Manager. If you're wondering what he does at Just Food, imagine a food magician with a heart of gold. Wayne's mission is to recover food from local grocery stores and restaurants, ensuring it doesn't go to waste. He orchestrates a symphony of food cycling, redirecting spoiled produce to area farmers, and making sure the pantry stays well-stocked beyond donations. Not to mention, he's the guardian of order and organization in the warehouse, guiding volunteers with a smile and overseeing daily operations. Wayne's also our go-to guy for all things recycling in the warehouse.

In his spare time, this Lawrence resident of 16 years is a fitness enthusiast, indulging in activities like running, biking, walking, or disc golfing. But don't be fooled by his active lifestyle; he loves to kick back on a sunny patio with a refreshing drink too. And the cherry on top? Wayne shares his home with his faithful 15-year-old dog, Truck.

Wayne Briggs is more than just a Warehouse & Waste Reduction Manager; he's a beacon of commitment and passion for Just Food and our community. We couldn't be more grateful for his tireless efforts in ensuring that no good food goes to waste, and for his dedication to making Lawrence a better place for all.