On March 1, the emergency increase of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, which had been in place since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, expired.
Many of our community members rely on SNAP benefits (formerly called the Food Stamp Program) to make ends meet. With the emergency SNAP benefits ending and inflation rates continuing to rise, we are seeing a surge in the number of guests for our daily lunch program and food pantry. If you are able, please consider making a gift to St. Peter's Kitchen so we can keep up with demand with enough nutritious meals and food items for everyone who needs them.
Thank you for your continued generosity during this difficult time.
In Memoriam: Longtime Cook Vincent Gordon
St. Peter's Kitchen lost a cherished, long-time volunteer chef, Vincent Gordon. Vincent was 98 years old when he passed away this past November.
Born in Jamaica, Vincent moved to the States in his late twenties seeking employment and a new start on life. He worked as a chef at several locations including the Presbyterian Home and St. Bernard's Seminary before volunteering for many years at St. Peter's. In addition to his masterful skills in the kitchen – including his prize-winning cakes – Vincent was well known for his childhood stories, his love for opera and jazz, and his gentle nature.
To know Vincent was to love him! He will be sorely missed but gave us treasured memories.
Announcing a New Collaboration with Project Haven
We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Project Haven, a new, innovative housing program in Rochester. An outgrowth of REACH Advocacy, Project Haven opened multiple sites earlier this year, designed to provide housing and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. St. Peter's Kitchen will supply the Haven with meals and food five days per week for 60+ residents.
Holiday Highlights
Because of YOUR support, the holiday season at St. Peter's Kitchen was a huge success. Just a few of the highlights from events during the holidays include:
63 households participated in our Holiday Toy Store, providing 178 children with gifts
168 blankets given away
103 food baskets distributed for Thanksgiving Day
600 meals served on Thanksgiving Day
200 Christmas dinners served
Thanks to You!
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who gave to St. Peter's Kitchen during the holiday season, starting with Giving Tuesday (ROC the Day) and continuing through December and the New Year.
Special thanks go out to:
Prosperity Advisory Group LLC, for their generous $10,000 year-end matching gift
The Schill Cares Foundation for a major grant which will help St. Peter's Kitchen expand capacity to meet increasing demand for our services
Alyssa's Angels Rochester and Dreams from Drake for making our annual Toy Store event possible
