Sanctuary Kitchen receives nearly $20,000 from Mecha Restaurants to increase resources for incoming Refugee Chefs

Sanctuary Kitchen receives nearly $20,000 from Mecha Restaurants to increase resources for incoming Refugee Chefs
New Haven, CT [October 10, 2023] - Sanctuary Kitchen, a subsidiary of CitySeed was awarded $19,814.25 from their partnership with Eat Justice Partnership and Mecha Restaurants. The funds, which were awarded on September 12th, will be used to update Sanctuary Kitchen’s equipment and resources to better serve the next cohort of refugee chefs to use the kitchen. Sanctuary Kitchen enables refugees to acquire economic independence after emigrating to the United States of America. This donation reflects the incredible dedication and generosity of the New Haven community to fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and social justice.
Through Sanctuary Kitchen's innovative culinary initiatives and the Eat Justice Partnership's advocacy for equitable food systems, this donation has not only raised funds but also raised awareness about the importance of embracing diversity and promoting food justice. The $20,000 raised will also allow the kitchen to produce more products for sales to the wider community to foster cultural exchange, and economic opportunities.
"We are immensely grateful to our community of supporters who have demonstrated their dedication to our cause," said Program Manager at Sanctuary Kitchen, Naseema Gilson. "This achievement reinforces our belief in the power of food to bring people together, break down barriers, and create positive change in the lives of those seeking refuge and a brighter future."
Sanctuary Kitchen and the Eat Justice Partnership extend their heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organizations who contributed to this milestone. The support allows Sanctuary Kitchen and CitySeed to continue making a meaningful impact towards food justice.
About Sanctuary Kitchen:
Sanctuary Kitchen is a pioneering social enterprise that empowers refugees and immigrants through culinary initiatives. By providing opportunities for these individuals to showcase their culinary talents, share their cultural heritage, and access economic opportunities, Sanctuary Kitchen fosters inclusivity, empowerment, and social justice through food.
About the Eat Justice Partnership:
The Eat Justice Partnership is dedicated to advocating for equitable food systems and sustainable culinary entrepreneurship. Through collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives, the partnership seeks to address issues of food justice and promote inclusivity in the culinary world.
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About CitySeed
CitySeed is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to engage the community in growing an equitable, local food system that promotes economic development, community development and sustainable agriculture. Since launching the city’s first farmers market in 2004, CitySeed has grown to run a network of markets that support Connecticut farmers and vendors year-round, launched CitySeed Incubates entrepreneurship services for emerging food businesses, and supports immigrant and refugee chefs resettled in Connecticut with professional development and employment through Sanctuary Kitchen. All of this helps build economic opportunity, resilience to challenging circumstances, and community development. For more visit www.cityseed.org