A Sarnia nonprofit that was born out of the pandemic has already provided around 50,000 homemade meals to seniors and vulnerable people.
Co-organizer Pastor Kevin McKee said Sarnia Blessings was started in March 2020 when a local chef, Kevin Allen, realized there was a need in the community.
McKee, who joined Sue Storr on CHOK (103.9FM/1070AM) Monday, said Allen started by cooking meals for seniors and people at his church in his own kitchen. The operation expanded when Allen became flooded with requests.
"It's a lot of baking and it's a lot of cooking, and Kevin and Jan Allen, [Kevin's wife], are really the motor, the engine behind all of this. Kevin, he's a hit-the-ground-running kind of guy and sometimes it's hard to keep up. He's just so full of vision and care for our community."
McKee said Sarnia Blessings had to scale-back operations after having a bit of trouble finding a suitable kitchen to cook in. He said they recently moved into a new facility, a former Sarnia restaurant, which will allow them return to cooking on a large scale.
"So, we're just kind of getting set up and ready to relaunch. And we're excited to announce in the coming weeks, or maybe the next month or two here, hopefully to be able to start receiving new referrals for clients again."
Homemade meals prepared by Sarnia Blessings. January 2021. (Photo from the group's Facebook page)
McKee said for every person they deliver a meal to, they often are hearing of others who would benefit from the service.
"And they're saying 'man, I got a friend who's really struggling and who's also in need.' The more that you uncover and reach out, the more you see that there are so many who are needing this practical help."
McKee said they started getting referrals from Bluewater Health, the Alzheimer Society of Canada and others who needed help getting food at home. He added that he considers Sarnia Blessings partners with other local organizations that do similar work.
McKee said the nonprofit is always looking for volunteers and monetary donations. For more information, click here.