The dinner menu at Shelter House read like it was from the finest restaurant in town Sunday.
Roasted winter squash soup, herb roasted lamb in Cabarnet jus and teriyaki beef were all produced, prepared and served thanks to the Thunder Bay Country Market. The meal was highlighted by a whole roasted pig with apple cranberry gravy. Shelter House executive director Patti Hajdu said while there has been some local produce on the menu before, the shelter has never seen a dinner like this. For the 200 expected people who rely on soup kitchens and food banks, it’s a rare chance to sample local foods.
“It’s a unique opportunity for a lot of people and I think people are very grateful for any kind of variety they get in their diet,” she said.
Market spokesperson Raili Roy said the people who make up the local market really wanted to take the time to introduce local food to people at the Shelter House.
“We’re really excited to be able to serve something delicious to a whole bunch of new people,” she said.
Hajdu said the shelter is grateful for all of the volunteers and donations they receive. She hopes the market will host another dinner in the future.
“We really like the idea of partnering with people who produce local food.”
