Local nonprofit Silver Spring Cares has announced that its ninth iteration of the bi-annual Casseroles for a Cause food collection event will take place Nov 1-7, 2021. The annual event brings the community together to stock freezers with delicious meals for partner organizations serving vulnerable neighbors who may be facing food insecurity.
According to Silver Spring Cares, “Casseroles for a Cause is a great opportunity for neighbors, friends, students, Scout Troops, book clubs, families, etc. to come together (virtually or in-person) to cook in support of their neighbors. Now in its ninth iteration, this bi-annual event has delivered more than 2,000 casseroles (each serving 6-8 meals) for a total of more than 14,000 meals whipped up by home chefs cooking for neighbors in need.”
Volunteers can register online. Once registered, volunteers will receive a Participant Packet with instructions, delivery addresses, helpful tips, recipe ideas, and printable delivery labels. Volunteers can drop off their casseroles at Shepherd’s Table, or schedule a pickup during the week of November 1-7. Volunteers within 15 minutes of downtown Silver Spring can schedule a pickup; pickups can also be scheduled for volunteers who are further away, but who have more than 10 casseroles to donate.
Shepherd’s Table, which partners with Silver Spring Cares for the campaign, has a broken freezer that stores the casseroles for distribution. Silver Spring Cares executive director Mónica O’Malley de Castillo launched a GoFundMe campaign last week to raise $6,500, covering the cost of one freezer and transaction fees.
“Our mission has always been to strengthen the community through connection,” said Mónica O’Malley de Castillo, Executive Director of Silver Spring Cares. “Even as we begin to open our doors again, the need in our community isn’t any less. Small acts of generosity can have a huge impact. Whether it’s cooking up pasta and sauce, eggs and veggies, or whipping together your grandmother’s famous casserole recipe, you can make all the difference for your neighbor who doesn’t have to go to bed hungry.”
Graphic courtesy Silver Spring Cares