A taste of Brazil
In the spirit of gratitude and connection over a good meal this Thanksgiving month, we are proud to share the success of a new food program! At New Westminster Family Place, we believe that food is more than just nourishment; it’s a bridge that connects us across cultures and strengthens our community. We’re thrilled to share the success of our inaugural drop-in food program, “Eat, Play, Love,” made possible in part by the generous government funding.
This program was designed in a very small but impactful way, to address food insecurity while providing a welcoming space for families to come together and enjoy a meal after connecting through play. In a time when the cost of living is rising and many families are struggling to make ends meet, initiatives like “Eat, Play, Love” are so valuable as another layer to our touchpoints in building community. By offering free meals and a supportive environment, we aim to alleviate some of the pressures families face and foster a sense of community during these challenging times.
Our first session was a delightful celebration of Brazilian culture, led by our wonderful staff members Fernanda and Natália, who brought their rich heritage to life through food and Brazilian music.
As families gathered after our Quayside drop-in play session, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. We transitioned to our training room where a feast had been set and the aroma of freshly prepared Brazilian dishes filled the air. Families were treated to a variety of traditional foods and treats, offering them a unique taste of Brazil.
From savory pastéls to sweet brigadeiros, our families were eager to try these new flavors. Many expressed their delight at being introduced to dishes they had never encountered before, and it was heartwarming to see the children sitting at our child-sized playroom tables, enthusiastically sampling everything. The experience not only introduced our families to Brazilian cuisine but also fostered a sense of adventure and openness to new experiences.
“I had never tried Brazilian food before! This is so nice!” – parent
We are incredibly proud of the positive feedback we received from our families, many of whom expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about a different culture while sharing a meal together. “Eat, Play, Love” is more than just a food program; it’s a celebration of community, connection, and the power of shared experiences. We will offer this program twice monthly, and on the second offering we will celebrate all of our children’s birthdays that fall within that month.
Thank you to everyone who participated in our first session, and a special shoutout to Fernanda and Natalia for sharing their passion and culture with us. We can’t wait to see what delicious adventures await in our upcoming “Eat, Play, Love” gatherings! Stay tuned for our next Eat, Play, Love on October 24th from 11:30-12:30!