Health services releases community kitchen manual

SYDNEY — Public Health Services in the Cape Breton District Health Authority has released a community kitchen manual for organizations that want to start or improve a kitchen in their community.

A community kitchen is a group of people who meet on a regular basis to plan meals, cook food, exchange recipes and learn new cooking skills. The meals that are prepared at a community kitchen are then taken home by the members to feed themselves and their families.

“In the past number of years, there has been a change in food choices, preparation methods and cooking skills,” said Sarah Ross, public health nutritionist. “There has been an increase in the amount of pre-made, packaged food items being consumed and a decrease in fruits and vegetables being consumed. Much of this is due to the fact that knowledge and access to healthy food choices can be limited.”

The manual provides information on what a community kitchen is, how to get started, and how to organize a group and find a co-ordinator and location. It also discusses establishing partnerships, shopping for food and food preparation.

“It’s easy to follow and full of helpful information,” Ross said. “This manual can help an organization improve the health of a community.”

Dorothy Halliday, executive director of Community Cares Youth Outreach, said her group plans to use the manual to bring together diverse groups, including young people, to start a community kitchen that will serve all ages.

“Participants will learn how to shop for food, identify healthy choices and learn new ways to feed themselves and their families,” she said.

Any person or group who would like a copy of the manual or would like more information on community kitchens, can contact Ross at 563-2716. An electronic copy can be found at www.cbdha.nshealth.ca/publichealth under publications and resources.