At our recent Wells Rotary meeting, we had the pleasure of welcoming Traci Anello, founder of Community Gourmet. Her presentation left a lasting impression on all of us, showcasing not only her dedication to addressing food insecurity but also her innovative approach to helping others in the community.
Traci’s work goes beyond the traditional care package. She creates “meal kits”, thoughtfully designed packages that include not only nutritious food but also recipes and essential kitchen tools, such as measuring cups, spoons, and spatulas. These kits are designed to empower recipients, giving them the resources and confidence to prepare healthy meals for themselves and their families. It’s a simple idea, yet it makes a meaningful impact on those who receive them.
During her talk, Traci also introduced the Charlie Cart, a mobile teaching kitchen that brings hands-on cooking education directly to the community. The Charlie Cart allows individuals to learn essential cooking skills, experiment with new recipes, and gain the confidence to make healthy choices in their everyday lives. This innovative program is a perfect example of how thoughtful, creative solutions can make a lasting difference in people’s lives.
Traci’s passion, compassion, and energy were evident throughout her presentation. She shared the origins of Community Gourmet, the partnerships that are forming to support its mission, and her vision for a sustainable program that nourishes not only the body but also the spirit. Her dedication to making a positive impact left our members feeling inspired and hopeful for the future.
Community Gourmet is a shining example of how creativity, care, and commitment can come together to address real-world challenges like food insecurity.
