Your impact will be immediate

Earlier this summer, our volunteer Anne shared this reflection on the incredible growth of KPC Buddhist Relief’s food program. Her story captures the teamwork, joy, and compassion that keep this effort moving week after week. 💛

Riddle me this… How does one go from delivering 2800 lbs of food to 6900 lbs in 5 weeks?

Well, KPC Buddhist Relief follows the guidance and compassion of our teacher and CEO, Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo.

While we procure our usual weekly items, Jetsunma has encouraged us to generate relationships with So What Else, picking up rescued food on Fridays; partner with Trader Joe’s picking up food every Sunday morning adding to our regular delivery on Mondays. As a result, KPC has acquired an additional 4000 lbs of produce and dry goods to offer to Shepherd’s Table, thereby avoiding waste and bringing wonderful, nutritious food to their guests.

Chef Daniel and Chef Christina are having fun with the unexpected items we can bring them and as I call them from So What Else to ask what they can use, they brainstorm as I tell him the amounts of items So What Else can provide. They adjust and supplement their stock when they receive items like cases of hot sauce, orange sauce, cases of Mango juice and Lemon Ice tea. We had a day where we brought 11 cases of fresh asparagus and one of their guests, Patty, was so excited, she asked Daniel to make the asparagus for dinner that night. He did and sent us a picture. These Chefs love their guests. 

As we were unloading we met their newest employee, Anthony, who’s working in operations/security with Rob and Mohamed. Anthony was amazed by the amount of food there was and Rob said, “KPC shows up like clockwork. KPC shows up every Monday.” We're now frequently showing up on Fridays as well, with items that are always a surprise like fresh pears, grapes, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries which Chef Daniel used to create the huge fruit salad they were making …. all treats for their guests. 

The relationship that KPC nurtures with Shepherd’s Table and our other partners is reflected in the joy that the Chefs and Pantry Managers have, knowing what they can provide for their clientele as a result of the deliveries made by KPC Buddhist Relief.

Because of Jetsunma’s generosity and continual inspiration, KPC Buddhist Relief is able to provide food for those in need, physically and emotionally. Please join us and become a Friend of KPC Buddhist Relief or make a one time donation. Your impact will be immediate.