CAT Cooks Up a Winner

cat keeps coming up with creative ways to…

help participants stretch food budgets and learn cooking skills that support nutrition and health. The latest creation— just in time for Christmas—is a new resource for participants called ‘My Cooking Journal’.

The Cooking Journal is set of ‘fan favorite’ recipes from the monthly CAT Collective Kitchens held over the past years. Many of the recipe suggestions come from the participants and are adapted for large portions in cost effective ways. Sue Lawrence, CAT Outreach Nurse, and JoJo Boateng, CAT Administrative Assistance, developed the Journal. Sue organizes the Collective Kitchens so could advise on the selections. Jojo collected the recipes and used Canva software to give them an attractive font and consistent layout.

Each recipe has been tried out and given a big thumbs up from Collective Kitchen attendees. Enticing, nutritious and easy-to-prepare dishes like Taco Spaghetti, Quinoa Meatballs, and Three Sisters Soup are included. Recipes are organized in seven handy sections ranging from casseroles, soups and chilies, and pasta, to breads and desserts. The three-ring binder format will let participants keep adding new recipes they discover.

The big ‘unveil’ will happen at the annual CAT Christmas event attended by 30 to 40 program participants, alumni, family and friends. Everyone comes together with staff to enjoy a special festive meal prepared by the CAT Peer Support team. That warm spirit of sharing is the perfect place for Cat to introduce and offer the new Journal to participants. CAT prepared 25 journals for the event and can print more if needed.

Sue passes on a special thank you to Save-on Foods. Each month Save-on Foods provides a gift certificate and a 15% discount on meats and fresh vegetables for Collective Kitchen supplies. As everyone knows, these can be the most expensive items in the grocery cart so the Save-on support makes it possible for participants to prepare and enjoy a nutritious, protein-rich meal at each Collective Kitchen.

To learn more about the new Cooking Journal or other CAT food security initiatives, contact Sue Lawrence, CAT Outreach Nurse—and creative Collective Kitchen Coordinator.