More Than a Meal: The Humanity We Share at the Table | Rosslyn Green | TEDxJHU Salon

Key Concepts

• Food insecurity: Lack of reliable access to sufficient, affordable, and nutritious food.
• Empowerment: Food security as a means to provide individuals with the resources needed to succeed.
• Food deserts: Communities with limited access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food options.
• Community approach: The Franciscan Center's model of providing meals in a communal dining setting to foster social connections.
• Food waste mitigation: Partnering with local farms and grocers to utilize surplus or "ugly" produce.

The Franciscan Center's Approach to Food Insecurity

Roslin, a social worker at the Franciscan Center, describes their ministry-based meal kitchen, which provides hot meals free of charge Monday through Friday. Unlike typical grab-and-go services, the Franciscan Center offers a dining hall where clients can select food from a buffet line and sit down to eat together. This setup fosters a community atmosphere where individuals share ideas and stories, creating a network of friends.

Mr. Arthur's Story: A Case Study

Roslin shares the story of Mr. Arthur, a 91-year-old retired veteran who struggled to apply for food benefits due to the shift to online applications. Prior to visiting the center, he was using his retirement funds to buy ice cream and candy for dinner because he couldn't afford nutritious food. He was grateful for the center's monthly distribution of fresh produce and milk.

Food Insecurity: Beyond Just Meals

Roslin emphasizes that food security is a form of empowerment. Lack of access to reliable nutrition impacts emotional and mental well-being, hindering individuals' ability to succeed. The Franciscan Center views food as a foundation for dignity, hope, and opportunity.

Misconceptions and Statistics

Contrary to common perceptions, most food-insecure individuals have jobs, families, and houses. Statistics show that 34 million Americans struggle with food insecurity, including 9 million children, affecting one in every 10 households. Food insecurity leads to chronic and mental health conditions, as well as financial strain.

Addressing Food Access and Nutrition

Roslin highlights the issue of food deserts, where community members have limited access to fresh grocery options and rely on fast food or corner stores. The Franciscan Center partners with local farms and grocers to collect surplus food, including "ugly" fruits and vegetables, to create nutritious and varied menus.

Creative Menu Planning and Food Waste Reduction

The culinary team at the Franciscan Center uses the collected surplus to create innovative dishes. For example, a large shipment of catfish and the monthly produce shipment led to recipes like fried catfish with cornbread, stewed catfish, and curry catfish with potatoes and green beans.

The Importance of Nutritious Meals and Community

Roslin concludes by emphasizing that access to food is not just about having a warm meal but about having a nutritious meal and the community aspect of sharing food with friends and family.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The Franciscan Center addresses food insecurity by providing not only meals but also a sense of community and empowerment. By partnering with local businesses to reduce food waste and create nutritious menus, they offer a holistic approach to combating hunger and promoting well-being. The story of Mr. Arthur and the statistics on food insecurity highlight the widespread nature of the problem and the importance of initiatives like the Franciscan Center in providing access to nutritious food and fostering a supportive community.