Holiday Recipe Drive

FastCompany is reporting that food insecurity is on the rise nationwide. That term—food insecurity—may not be familiar, but the rate here in the Valley is significantly above the national average.

This was a recurring theme in my work at Community Food Bank, where I first heard the term "working poor." Five years later, it still baffles me that we grow foods here that nourish the rest of the country, while over 35% of our community questions where their next meal will come from. If you're eating regularly, that means that one of two of your neighbors may not be.

Don't worry—this isn't a guilt trip

TasteFresno is not a political forum, so I'll step down from my soapbox now. But we know that this is the time of year when charitable giving peaks, and we want to stoke that fire: For every recipe posted from now (November 1, actually) through the end of the month, we'll make a donation to Community Food Bank to help provide holiday meals for Valley residents in need.

Our intention is to donate $1 for each recipe posted, but there are a few caveats:

• We have a budget—we don't think we'll exceed it, but if we do, we'll have to put out a call for more donors. We may also be able to increase that amount.
• Community members must have permission to post the recipe; this is a standard requirement, but we want to protect copyrights.

So, when you gather with family for a hearty Thanksgiving meal, write down the recipes for each dish and post them. Or share what you cook after the holiday to help detox from turkey overdose. Anything goes, really.

Additional opportunities to get involved

If you're just not into sharing recipes, that's okay. Here are a just few additionals ways you help out:

• Partner with us—consider matching part (all is better, hint hint) of the donations. Email us if you're interested.
• Volunteer—the food bank hosts several work days where volunteers help to sort donations from local food drives.
• Buy groceries—SaveMart grocery stores offer pre-packaged grocery bags for $10 and $20 that are donated to area food banks (Community Food Bank serves most of the Central Valley). Buy a bag, and they'll also donate 10% of your bill.

As you spend time with family and friends over the holiday, cherish that time, and enjoy the flavors!