Almonte’s monthly afternoon tea program gives caregivers a break and a chance to connect with others.
by Iris Winston
The decibel level and laughter signal the enjoyment that is at the heart of a monthly afternoon tea program for caregivers.
Part of a broader free meal initiative that a group of Almonte residents began in 2023, the afternoon tea is intended to give people who are looking after loved ones a break from their duties and an opportunity to talk to others in similar situations.
“It’s not just about food, though many people are in need of support,” says Ingrid Kadoke, one of the organizers of the Meal for All program. “At the afternoon tea, food is a bonus but the friends you make are even better. A lot of people learn about other programs just by sitting around the table and talking.”
The focus of the afternoon teas, held at Almonte’s Sterling restaurant, is to give anyone taking care of others a chance to socialize in a pleasant setting. Offered on the second Monday of the month, the teas are growing in popularity as a place for caregivers to relax and meet new friends.
The first segment of the free meal initiative was started in part to combat the isolation caused by COVID-19, as well as to fill a need for anyone hit by food insecurity. Free breakfasts are offered each Thursday morning at Almonte’s Community Presbyterian Church.
The program also includes free suppers every other month, held either at Almonte United Church or at St. Andrew’s United Church, Pakenham. In addition, there is a community pantry at the Almonte branch of Mississippi Mills Public Library.
“The pantry is a food cupboard that offers a full range of products — nothing that could spoil — such as soups, sauces, spaghetti and so on. There are pet foods and personal hygiene products as well,” says Kadoke. “People give what they can and take what they need. Bringing something to exchange is not a prerequisite. It’s just how it seems to happen.”
“Our community is fabulous,” she adds. “It makes me really proud to be part of it. People care. They want to be part of helping. A lot of people who have benefited give back when they can. And we have a long list of sponsors, that’s still growing, as well as a lot of individual donors and many dedicated volunteers.”
For further information on A Meal for All, contact hello@amealforall.ca.
