SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — Teen Kitchen Project is looking for volunteer drivers to deliver food to those in need.
Teen Kitchen Project, a nonprofit organization, teaches young people how to cook nutritious food. That food is then delivered to individuals and families throughout Santa Cruz County who are experiencing a life-threatening illness.
Jon Winston, 62, began volunteering with Teen Kitchen Project shortly after its inception five years ago. Each week he spends a couple of hours driving freshly prepared food to people who might not have the time or ability to cook for themselves and their families.
Retired, Winston had known the organization’s founder Angela Farley from her role as his daughter’s teacher, and the mission of delivering healthy nutritious food to families dealing with drastic illness was one he could not ignore. Despite already serving on several other boards, he decided to take a more hands-on approach and became a “Delivery Angel.”
“This is their main source of nutrition for the week, and gratitude is one of the many, many expressions I receive on behalf of the organization,” Winston said. “I have one of the best jobs in the organization, because I get to take this fabulous food and put it in the hands of the clients.”
Over the course of one or two hours a week, he said it’s something that brings great joy to others and himself. An important link in the chain, the nonprofit organization is currently seeking more Delivery Angels.
At the end of the day, Winston said he has learned how something that is seemingly trivial as a delivery of food can have a significant impact on another’s health and recovery. While he would love to work in the kitchen at some point, Winston also wants to find a way to match teens with meaningful community service — something he said he feels Teen Kitchen Project embodies.
To volunteer or for information, contact Angela Farley at 316-4540, extension 707.
