During the months of November, many people s thoughts turn toward all the abundance they possess. Giving thanks is a human thing to do, as are the rituals around gatherings with friends and family. Helping others is also something that humans have always done and continue to do all over the world. Many such organizations depend on commodities, donated and salvaged foods to feed their guests.
Most programs rely on volunteers, are small, and operate on a low budget.
Staff and volunteers face the obstacle of preparing nutritious, quick, and tasty meals, or food bags, with little expertise and a variable food supply. The following recipe is a simple soup recipe that could be adjusted to feed a large group providing a sustaining and satisfying meal when complemented with crusty bread and a vegetable salad, for example. Recipes to prepare inexpensive yet nutritious meals can be found in many sources. Stamp Nutrition Education programs are two good sources. Recipes that provide simple nutritional material including a calorie count and serving size information using the USDA Food Guide Pyramid are especially useful.