Food brings people together. The act of breaking bread with others nourishes not only our bodies but creates shared experiences and opportunities to foster meaningful connections.
Carya’s food programming is a place for community, connection, and well-being where participants can come together, learn, and thrive. 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 that everyone should have access to the knowledge and resources needed to make informed choices about their well-being.
Our programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all, offering no-cost drop-in and registered opportunities.
Community Meals and Social Gathering
Community meal programs play a pivotal role in fostering social cohesion, addressing food insecurity, and promoting overall well-being within neighbourhoods. By providing a space where individuals can gather, share a meal, and connect with one another, these initiatives contribute significantly to the fabric of Calgary and The East Village.
Upcoming Community Drop-In Opportunities
Chow and Chatter
Come and connect at Chow and Chatter! It is a monthly community meal with fun activities and entertainment, and it is a great opportunity to meet your neighbour or a new friend. All food is made on-site from scratch by Chef Chris Grosse and volunteers from the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Society (CIWA). Chow and Chatter is for older adults (55+).
Upcoming Chow and Chatter:
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE
Chow and Chatter is a drop-in ticketed event, meaning securing your spot for the free community meal works on a first-come, first-served basis.
For information on how to get your ticket or about Chow and Chatter, please contact 403-536-6558 or email AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.
Registered Culinary Demonstration Programs
By focusing on accessible, affordable, and nutritious cooking, these programs empower individuals to make informed dietary choices. From learning basic cooking techniques to understanding the nutritional value of ingredients, Carya’s culinary demonstration programs aim to 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, emphasizing passion and creativity and fostering confidence, resilience, and 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, including foundational skills like knife handling and food safety. Modules on nutrition, cultural cuisines, and sustainable cooking practices promote holistic learning and empower individuals to cook for themselves more often, overcoming barriers through practical life skills education.
Upcoming Culinary Skill Development Programs
Snack Crew
| Prepare healthy snacks with our kitchen team while building culinary skills in a community setting. Participants who attend Snack Crew will learn basic kitchen skills like knife handling, sanitation techniques all while bonding with fellow community members |
When: Mondays
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Avenue SE
For more information or to register, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca or call 403-536-6558
Upcoming Program Dates and Times
Food & Mood
| Eating well isn’t always easy, especially when we’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or low on energy. In this series, we’ll learn to cook simple, satisfying meals that take the pressure out of cooking on those low-energy days, while exploring the connection between food and mood. |
Dates: Tuesdays, Sept 22 – Oct 13, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE
For more information or to register, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca or call 403-536-6558.
Upcoming Program Dates and Times
For more information or to register, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca or call 403-536-6558.