Interested in starting a cook group?

It’s not as complicated as you may think, and many have found it to be a rewarding experience. Here is all you need to get started on this fulfilling journey. Your contribution in time and effort is incredibly valuable to our community. Sometimes, hands-on service, like cooking nutritious meals for others, brings joy not only to the residents but also to you as the cook. With your support and participation, we are able to gift a warm meal that makes the families and individuals feel right at home and fosters a sense of belonging.

What you need to start a cooking group!

• Time & Commitment: Each month, devoted members of our community come together to form a group and reserve a specific day to prepare and serve a nourishing meal for the residents at both our Broadway location and the CHESS facility on 16th Avenue. This collaborative effort not only provides sustenance but also fosters connections and a sense of belonging among

  participants and residents alike.

• Food: The best part of starting a cook group is the wonderful opportunity to choose a delightful meal for the resident. It can be as easy as whipping up a comforting dish of spaghetti or as challenging as preparing a festive turkey! If you find that you are unable to provide the necessary ingredients, please let us know, and we will check to see if we have anything available in stock that we can use. We aim to offer at least one protein source and, if possible, vegetables. We rely solely on the generous donations and unwavering support of the community, so we always strive to create nourishing and warm meals as often as we can.

• Food Handlers Card: To ensure the proper handling of food in our kitchen and the quality of the meals being served to our residents, we kindly ask that at least one member of your designated cook group holds a current and up-to-date food handlers card on file. The best part is just how straightforward and easy this process can be. All you need to do is visit the Washington State Department of Health, where you will find a link to conveniently take the required course online, allowing you to complete the training from the comfort of your home.

• Desire to Serve Others: Throughout the year, we consistently strive to fill every single day with a dedicated cook group aimed at helping to cover the costs associated with providing meals. This initiative ensures that the families and individuals who experience homelessness have access to a warm, homemade meal to enjoy during their stay at the shelter. If you are interested in taking the next step towards starting a cook group or joining an existing cook group, please take a moment to fill out the form provided below. Your participation can truly make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.

Thank you to our cook groups for helping those in need. We appreciate you!

• Noodle Ninjas

• Mint Valley LDS

• David May Group

• St. Paul’s Lutheran

• Castle Rock Nazarene

• Coal Creek Church

• Toledo First Baptist

• Community House Board of Directors

• First Baptist Church

• Evangel Christian Fellowship

• Breakpoint

• Longview Noon Rotary

• JD’s Family Dinner

• Calvary Community Church

• The Small Family