Editor:

July 2014 marked the first anniversary of operations for FEAST, the home delivered (Meals on Wheels), on-site congregate and community ToGo fundraiser meals for local seniors and persons with disabilities. FEAST is a unique three-way partnership between a non-profit, Just Basics Inc., the City of Montpelier (MSAC) and a for-profit, Good Taste Catering.

FEAST is committed to providing the freshest, healthiest, local foods available to those who need it most, while simultaneously investing in our local food economy. FEAST also provides socialization, volunteer service and job-training opportunities!

FEAST was projected, in its first year, to provide 10,200 meals. The meal program’s popularity resulted in FEAST providing over 14,000 meals. While this is a glowing testament to the program’s success, it has created some funding challenges that the FEAST partners will address in this upcoming year. The FEAST partners will seek additional municipal, private and grant support in addition to support from FEAST participants in its second year.

We at FEAST are incredibly thankful for the community’s support for this program over the past year. With your continued generosity and the hard work of our partners, we look forward to many healthy, delicious years to come. Special thanks to individual donors as well as the Central Vermont Council on Aging and the City of Montpelier who both allocated additional, vital funds to Just Basics Inc. to help fill the funding gap in our first year.

Starting this August, FEAST has increased its “suggested donation request” for seniors 60 years and over and will increase its meal price for those under 60. Make recommended reservations for Tuesday/Friday lunches (at least a day in advance) or inquire about Feast at Home, by calling 262-6288 or emailing justbasicsinc@gmail.com.

Theresa Murray-Clasen, Exec. Director of Just Basics, Inc.

Justin Turcotte, Chef/Owner of Good Taste Catering LLC

Janna Clar, Director of Montpelier Senior Activity Center