The Wine for Food Fall Challenge

There’s something about the cooler months that just makes me want to share. It could be that there’s a day coming in November entirely devoted to giving thanks. Or it could be that I realize, as I wrap myself in scarves and blankets, that I am among the lucky who can, in fact, wrap myself in scarves and blankets.

No matter the reason, as soon as the air cools, I start measuring what I can afford to give. Sorting through my clothing, participating in alumni days of service… these things, along with apple cobbler and squash soup, make me feel like I’m really experiencing the joys of the season.

I heard someone say once (perhaps on a TV commercial) that she makes it a policy to always give something away before she buys something that she arguably doesn’t need. She doesn’t apply this to the purchasing of food, but when it comes to clothing or household items, it helps keep her in check. “I really love that dress” turns into “Do I like it enough that I can give away something in order to have it?” It’s not a bad policy, and this fall I’m going to try to do it, but in a way that’s relevant to me. This means I’m making it about food and wine. Instead of trading an old article of clothing for a new one, I’ll donate food each time I buy a bottle of wine.

It should be easy. The Lincoln Square Friendship Center just opened, and The Chopping Block in Lincoln Square is now accepting donations items for the community center. I’m looking forward to this little humbler every time I purchase wine. I hope it will make me realize I’m lucky to be able to do this and if I’m indulging, I can certainly splurge so someone else can have dinner.

If the scents and sights of fall put you in the giving mood as well, you can bring donations of non-perishable food items to our store in Lincoln Square any day and we will deliver them, along with the leftover ingredients from our cooking classes, to the Friendship Center. Keep in mind, you can find many donate-able foods on our shelves – along with a bottle of wine if you’re in for my challenge!

Here’s a list of items the center could always use:

• Nuts
• Canned chicken/tuna
• Coffee/tea
• Pasta and sauce
• Honey
• Peanut butter
• Powdered milk
• Hearty soup
• Beans
• Cereal (hot and cold)
• Baby food and diapers
• Rice
• Canned fruit and veggies

The Lincoln Square Friendship Center’s Grand Opening will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2013 from 6pm-9pm at 2733 W. Lawrence Ave. There is a $20 suggested donation at the door.

Will I see you there?