We are pleased to report to the community that so far, $63,000 has been raised through generous donations from the community, as well as grants. Our budget goal is $131,000.00 to renovate and fully equip a modern, to code, health-approved kitchen.
Costs include basic renovation, expansion of the footprint, new electrical wiring, flooring, stove, dishwasher, convection oven, cold table, small appliances, refrigeration, stainless steel canopy and exhaust system. Included in the budget are also dishes, small wares, pots and pans, cash register etc.
The Board has given approval to commence Phase 1 in mid July, consisting primarily of opening up the area, levelling the floor and new subflooring, installation of a 200amp panel and power supply and new skylight (that doesn’t leak!).
Over the summer months the final plan will be developed, go for approval by VIHA and we will begin equipment purchasing.
We plan to start installing equipment and fixtures in the fall, depending on the success of fundraising efforts over the summer.
Our grants are primarily “matching funds” so every dollar donated privately is matched by the granting agency.
The SCCA is a Registered Charity and a tax-deductible receipt will be provided for all donations on request.
In the past, the kitchen was leased to private operators. Our new “Community Kitchen” is intended to provide food services that benefit Islanders and support SCCA programs:
The cafe will be open for morning coffee and baked treats.
Monday: Seniors Day.
Weekly lunches specials on a cost-recovery/break even basis, offering a fixed-price low-cost lunch menu for our Seniors. Later we hope to offer “heat ‘n serve” pre-packaged dinners, and eventually a program similar to Meals-on-wheels for housebound Elders.
Younger folks are welcome to eat too, with a regular-priced menu.
Wednesday: Family Day.
Featuring a children’s menu. All revenues will go to support the Playschool and children’s programs.
Friday: Market Day
Full-service menu, bringing back the legendary burritos, grilled sandwiches and great desserts.
Proceeds to support SCCA operations.
In addition to cafe-style food service, the Board intends to integrate the kitchen into community life, as follows:
-Community Organization Fundraising: facility rental to local groups for fundraising lunches and dinners.
-Special Event catering facility: including fundraisers, Community meals (ie Xmas dinner), and rental for weddings, celebrations etc.
-Youth: provide job experience, education credits and skills training.
-Education: through local learning institutions, food preparation, canning and cooking classes.
-Market Vendors and local food producers: rental of certified kitchen for preparation of food for retail sale and private label food products.
This exciting addition to the Hall services is dependent on community support, please help us to realize the vision and make a donation today!
With thanks from the Kitchen Committee, and the SCCA Board.