By Chad Polito
Special to Dawson
On Wednesday, March 18th, BGC Dawson resumed their community lunches with a special four course meal in their gym on Woodland Street. Community Chef Marc McKeown kicked off the lunch by sharing his excitement and passion for this event. “This is my first community lunch (as chef at BGC Dawson) and it’s something that I have been dreaming about since I was hired a few years ago,” explained McKeown.
Community lunches are in an important part of the food and sustainability programming. The lunches not only provide a healthy, balanced meal, but they provided the opportunity for community members to get together and break down social isolation. “This is something that the community has been missing since the start of COVID-19” shares one volunteer “I am so happy that we are able to offer this once again.”
Under the ambiance of jazz music, everyone had the opportunity to connect with old friends and to meet new ones. For the first course, guests were served a delicious sweet potato and carrot soup perfectly garnished with parsley. The incredible team of volunteers looked after every detail and followed up the soup with a fresh chickpea, cucumber and tomato salad topped with goat cheese.
The beef n’ burgundy was the main course and was much appreciated by all. “The boeuf bourguignon was so tender and the potatoes and carrots were cooked perfectly,” exclaimed one participant. “This meal was perfect on a day like today”!
And the cherry on top, was a delicious cherry cookie that was baked with love by our volunteers. Laughter and conversations could be heard throughout the gym as guests enjoyed their dessert over a cup of coffee and great conversations. “What a pleasure to see each other again and to share such an amazing and comforting meal! A special thanks to chef Marc McKeown and the marvelous volunteers! You made my day!” concludes Isabelle Melançon, Députée of Verdun.
BGC Dawson’s food programming serves hundreds of community members each month through a variety of programs including the Mobile Market and weekly foodbank. “BGC Dawson has always been there for the community,” explains Alicia Mancini, president of the board of directors. “We know that COVID-19 has been rough on the community, and we have been working to ensure that we can not only continue these essential services but expand them.” This community lunch was the relaunching of many more to come.
