“Safe space” is a popular, albeit controversial, term these days.
It was used a great deal during this past election season, but it still describes a valid concept. We all need to feel safe in our environments to thrive.
For seven years, The Community Meal organization has striven, and succeeded, in providing a safe space and nutritious meal to thousands of Barrington area residents. In 2016 alone, 3,988 people were served at area churches and facilities by this nonprofit, according to figures from The Community Meal.
According to Barrington resident Sandy Hasse, who is a coordinator at The Community Meal, the organization changed its tagline to reflect the mission of The Community Meal.
“We changed our tagline to, ‘It’s more than a meal … It’s belonging’ because thats how we feel about the meal,” she said. “Social connections are critical. God never meant for us to go through life solo. The Community Meal is a safe group of friends that will support you, encourage you and inspire you.”
A couple more facts about The Community Meal, the group has been serving since 2009, and the average attendance at each event is about 150.
The group also is grateful to all of its sponsors, including Barrington Bank and Trust, Crissie Insurance Group, Dalmec North America, Mitsubishi Electric Automation, SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Cary, Superior Exhibits and Design, Casey Automotive, and Rose Packing Company.
Food donations to The Community Meal also come from Barilla, Brunch Cafe, Einstein Bros., Jasper Meats, Jimmy John’s, Primo Pizza and Rose Packing Company.
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Like Hasse, its core team members also are neighbors from the area, including founder Mary Sandner of Cary, Kate Hasse of Palatine, Anny Jamieson of Cary, Luann Pomeraning of Barrington, Nancy Davis of Barrington, Stud Overbuy of Lake Barrington, Robert Hasse of Barrington, Debye Partridge of Barrington, Pam Pellizzari of Cary, Charlotte and David Stanton of Deer Park, Nancy Langlois of Cary, Ruth Blank of Barrington, Barb Wagner of Barrington, and Aldonia Fisiak of Elgin.
More than 482 community volunteers in 2016 also came from local churches, Barrington High School, the Barrington Junior Women’s Club, Barrington Service League, Boy and Girl Scouts, and other groups.
The next Community Meal will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 12 at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School, 200 North Plum Grove Road in Palatine.
Organizers will serve a nutritious dinner. Participants also can learn more about a simple service project called “Operation Christmas Child” following the meal.
Anyone interested in donating, participating, volunteering, hosting a meal or becoming an official site can email the group at [email protected].
Kimberly Albrecht is a freelance columnist for Pioneer Press.