Giving Table: Culturally Appropriate Food Giveaway
Genesis Youth Foundation is pleased to announce a holiday food grocery giveaway on December 23, 2020. The Giving Table Food Giveaway will feature culturally appropriate food that is familiar to African refugee and immigrant families, although anyone in central Iowa experiencing food insecurity is welcome to receive food, while supplies last.
The availability of culturally sensitive food is important because it not only addresses issues of food insecurity, but basic dignity as well. Access to food that is familiar and that people know how to prepare is important, particularly during the holidays where food takes on special significance for many different cultures.
Sam Gabriel, Co-founder and Executive Director of Genesis Youth Foundation said, “There are many food distribution sites that took place around the city, including a couple we put on this past summer. However, many of our immigrant and refugee families did not participate because the available food was unfamiliar.” While COVID-19 has impacted most people in some way, it has also disproportionally exacerbated inequalities for populations that were already vulnerable before the pandemic. Gabriel said that many families and elders in the refugee community in Central Iowa are really struggling right now with issues of housing, food insecurity, and employment. Gabriel said he knows the Giving Table Food Giveaway, “will be truly appreciated and a blessing to everyone who is able to take part.”
The Giving Table Food Giveaway is funded through a grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Disaster Recovery Fund investment from Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa, an initiative of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines. Additionally, Genesis Youth Foundation is pleased to partner with Shining City Foundation and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church to give out knitted winter hats and scarves at the Giving Table Food Giveaway as well.
Culturally sensitive food will be available while supplies last on Wednesday, December 23rd from 11:00am to 1:00pm and from 4:00p to 6:00pm at Franklin Junior High in Des Moines. Franklin Jr. High is located at 4801 Franklin Avenue.
When: Wednesday, December 23 from 11:00 am to 1:00pm and from 4:00pm to 6:00pm
Where: Franklin Jr. High, 4801 Franklin Avenue, Des Moines
