Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins (ACT) has unveiled a state-of-the-art community kitchen, equipped with top-tier appliances and offering a wide variety of opportunities for health-focused workshops. Executive Director Kelsey MacDonnell expressed excitement about the new facility, saying, “Our new kitchen allows us to do much more for the community, providing a regular and accessible culinary program.”
The opening marks the expansion of ACT’s Collective Cooking programs, designed to teach residents how to create healthy, affordable meals. These programs aim to help people improve their cooking skills and manage their grocery budgets without compromising nutrition. The 640-square-foot kitchen can accommodate up to 20 participants at a time, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and cooking.
Food Fit Series: Cooking, Learning, and Moving Together
ACT’s 12-week Food Fit series is currently in full swing, combining healthy eating with physical activity. Each week, participants gather to cook, learn, and engage in activities such as painting or walking, all while building healthier habits. “Every Friday, we focus on creating positive body images and promoting healthier lifestyles through cooking and movement,” MacDonnell explains.
The Food Fit program, made possible by Community Food Centres of Canada, takes place every Friday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Participants learn simple and enjoyable ways to improve their eating habits and stay active.
Muffin Mondays: Teaching Kids Healthy Habits
Mondays have become a treat at ACT’s downtown office with the launch of “Muffin Monday.” This interactive workshop teaches children how to bake nutritious snacks using locally sourced ingredients. For instance, during the first session, kids made blueberry muffins enriched with cottage cheese for added protein.
“Muffin Monday” introduces kids to the nutritional benefits of fresh, locally grown foods, including wild berries, a summer staple in Timmins. The workshops are held after school, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and offer a fun and educational way to build healthy habits. The Richelieu Club of Timmins generously supports the initiative, helping children connect with both food and the community.
Breakfast Program: Nourishing the Community
ACT’s Breakfast Program serves a nutritious meal to vulnerable residents every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Sponsored by the United Way, the program aims to ensure that no one in the community starts their day hungry, reinforcing the message that kindness is always part of the menu at ACT.
New Kitchen, New Opportunities
MacDonnell is already planning new programs for the community kitchen. “One idea I have is a seniors’ baking competition,” she says. “Seniors’ homes could each hold their own contest, with the winners coming together to compete in our new kitchen.”
Other ideas include workshops on “hiding vegetables” in family-friendly recipes like smoothies and stews, as well as classes on cooking with food bank staples to create budget-friendly meals. ACT also hopes to offer a program focusing on preparing nutritious meals for the week ahead and introduce Indigenous cooking classes.
Chef-Led Culinary Experiences
Another exciting prospect is bringing local chefs to the kitchen for hands-on culinary workshops. Timmins has a rich food scene, including a variety of international cuisines. MacDonnell envisions chefs leading sessions where participants can learn to make authentic dishes, gain cooking tips, and experience new flavors. “It’s about sharing culture, flavors, and community,” she says.
ACT’s new kitchen offers a space where people can socialize, learn new skills, and share experiences around cooking. MacDonnell notes that participants, initially hesitant, have expressed enthusiasm about returning for future sessions.
ACT’s programs wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support of local businesses and organizations. MacDonnell invites local businesses to join in supporting the community’s health and connection through food, stating, “If a business would like to support our vision of a healthier, more connected community, we’d love to have them on board.”
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