Food is more than just sustenance; it is a universal language of care, connection, and community. Whether it’s sharing a meal with family, passing down a favourite recipe, or gathering around the table with new friends, food has a way of bringing people together. This March, we at Carya are celebrating Nutrition Month by shining a spotlight on the role food plays in building healthier, more connected communities.
This year’s theme, “Nourish to Flourish,” reminds us that food is about more than physical health, it nurtures emotional resilience, social connection, and the strength of our communities.
Chow and Chatter: More Than Just a Meal
In our work, we witness firsthand how a shared meal can lead to meaningful conversations, deepen relationships, and foster a sense of belonging. One of the best examples of this is Chow and Chatter, a monthly gathering for older adults (55+) that does more than serve a nutritious meal, it creates a space for connection, storytelling, and community. For many participants, it’s not just about the food, it’s about the friendships formed around the table.
This month, volunteers from TC Energy once again rolled up their sleeves to bring this gathering to life, helping to serve a meal and facilitate meaningful conversations. Through their social impact program Build Strong, TC Energy’s longstanding partnership with Carya is a shining example of how businesses can make a lasting impact through community engagement. Their support, both financially and through volunteering, has allowed us to continue offering food skills programming, empowering individuals with the skills and connections they need to thrive.
Over the past year alone, TC Energy volunteers have contributed more than 200 hours to these initiatives, demonstrating their deep commitment to making a difference.
“We are deeply grateful for our partnership with TC Energy,” says Paula Telfer, Chief Executive Officer at Carya. “Their dedication to strengthening communities shines through in their continued support of our food programs.”
The impact of programs like Chow and Chatter extends far beyond a single meal. Research shows that social isolation can have significant effects on both mental and physical health, particularly for older adults. Opportunities for social connection, like those provided by shared meals, help combat loneliness, increase overall well-being, and foster a sense of belonging.
Food as a Catalyst for Connection
Through our range of food programming, we address the importance of social connections, educate individuals about nutrition and healthy eating, and foster culinary skill development. We believe everyone should have access to the knowledge and resources needed to make informed choices about their well-being, allowing them to nourish and flourish.
Registered Culinary Demonstration Programs
By focusing on accessible, affordable, and nutritious cooking, these programs empower individuals to make informed dietary and budget conscious choices. From learning basic cooking techniques to understanding the nutritional value of ingredients, Carya’s culinary demonstration programs help individuals develop the confidence and knowledge necessary to prepare healthy meals for themselves and their families.
Culinary Skill Development Programs
Carya’s culinary skill development programs go beyond honing skills; they emphasize passion, creativity, confidence, and resilience while fostering a sense of belonging among participants. These initiatives aim to build stronger communities by nurturing talent and positive relationships with food. Accessible, no-cost training opportunities are provided to individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a curriculum covering culinary techniques, theory, and practical kitchen experience. Foundational skills like knife handling and food safety are taught alongside modules on nutrition and cultural cuisines, empowering individuals to cook for themselves more often and overcome barriers through practical food skills education.
Building Stronger Communities Through Food
This year’s Nutrition Month theme speaks to the deeper meaning of food, it is about well-being, emotional resilience, and social ties. If we truly want to build strong, thriving communities, we must recognize that food is not just fuel for the body; it is nourishment for the soul and a cornerstone of community well-being. Whether inviting a neighbour for dinner, volunteering at a local food program, or simply taking the time to enjoy a meal with loved ones, we can all play a role in building a stronger, more resilient community.
To learn more about Carya’s food programming, click here.
