Keep the Kitchens Open!

The WHY

This campaign comes at a crucial time for Carol's Kitchen which has operated for the past 20 years on private donations, fundraisers, local grant funding, and special events. The presence of Carol's Kitchen needs be elevated to a status where there is greater awareness, increased partnerships, so that the needs  can be addressed leading to economic development and greater heath outcomes for the region. 

In an area where state and county funding is scarce, but the need has only increased due to the economics of the area, it is time to try something different!  Many of the grants that are available cannot fund out most basis need---operating expenses,such as overhead and rent, and need for  paid personnel to maintain the level of service currently offered. 

The need for this service is evident by the number of people who attend the 3 sites each week where over 1200 meals are served each week--all by volunteers from the local community!

The efforts are concentrated in the southwest corner or Riverside county in the cities of Banning Beaumont, and Cabazon. Carol's Kitchen operates at the micro level to fulfill one of the social determinants of health often not met by the homeless or vulnerable populations.

Carol's Kitchen needs  physical office space-which is currently non-existent.The 12 board members operate in cyberspace with monthly meetings wherever space is provided. A warehouse facility and refrigerator unit  is rented to store donated food. Both facilities are is in need of repair. There is a delivery truck which is in  need of maintenance and repair-possibly replacement.

History

Carol's Kitchen was created in response to a parent's grief. In 1996  Arlene and Jim Reagan lost their 26 year old daughter in a very tragic car accident caused by a drunk driver. Carol Ragan was passionate about the unfortunate and to honor her spirit and dedication to the community, the Ragans started serving meals--chicken enchiladas- Carol's favorite out of the Banning Community Center. And so the story of Carol's kitchen began with more people recognizing the need in the community, the effort became a non-profit 501c3 in 1998 and has grown exponentially throughout the past 20 years. 

What sets the operation apart from a food distribution or pantry program is the respect with which the participants are treated. No one is tuned away. Many who walk through the doors are homeless, or in need of medical, emotional, or behavioral support. Some just need a hot meal since they have no meals to prepare food in their current living condition.

     They sit at tables, are greeted and served by volunteers- treated as if they were in a restaurant. The sites offer second helpings and desserts and hot coffee which are served to the participants. Often, they linger or meet up with friends, or talk with the volunteers which is all part of the humane atmosphere established. When available, each site will offer donated  produce and grocery items to take home. Sometimes, there are clothing options. Carol's Kitchen is currently working on more sustainable options for the clothing which is very appreciated by the clientele.

The current operating budget is $107,000, but this needs to be doubled or tripled to keep the kitchen open. The funds will be used for needed operating costs, marketing and outreach, upgrade in facilities needed, increased infrastructure to support increased infrastructure.