#PLATE IT FORWARD
November starts our holidays as a month dedicated to giving and gratitude—a time to reflect on the power of generosity and its impact on the lives around us. At UGK Community First, we believe that each contribution, no matter how small, helps us bring food security, education, and hope to our communities. As we gather with family and friends this season, we invite you to join us in extending that warmth to those who need it most. Your support enables us to provide nourishing meals, culinary education, and resources that empower individuals and families. With your help, we can create lasting change and celebrate the true spirit of community. This holiday season, please consider donating to UGK Community First, and together, let’s make a difference—one meal, one family, one community at a time.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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Smart SoulFood
Smart Soul Food is a culinary education initiative that empowers disadvantaged community members to prepare nutritious, delicious meals using fresh, local ingredients. Over six classes led by our Hell’s Kitchen finalist chef, participants learn cooking techniques and explore cultural cuisines tailored to diverse dietary needs. Each class includes a food box for preparing meals at home, while the program also tracks health outcomes to promote improvements in diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, fostering lasting impacts on well-being and culinary confidence.
From Scratch
Feeding our senior community with healthy, nutritious, chef-prepared meals is crucial for their overall well-being, especially as we approach the holiday season in collaboration with Armstrong Renaissance and Better Housing Coalition, and City of Richmond serving 1300 Thanksgiving meals.