The San Antonio nonprofit is preparing a festive feast of succulent ham, homemade mac-and-cheese and country-style green beans.
SAN ANTONIO — For Faith Kitchen, their mission to serve San Antonio’s homeless community is year-around. But during the holiday season, the work takes on extra meaning.
Executive Chef Lorris Gibson and his team are preparing hot meals for a festive holiday feast. The menu includes comfort foods like mac-and-cheese and ham, along with fruits and vegetables.
“We are definitely doubled down getting things done,” Gibson said.
Gibson has been part of Faith Kitchen for 12 years and said the work is more than a job, it’s a calling. The kitchen serves people who don’t always have a traditional place to call home, offering not just food but dignity and care.
“We come in here ready to work on Christmas Day and get it done,” Gibson said. “We’re pretty happy to be able to do this. It’s pretty special.”
For Gibson, the mission is especially personal.
“Being an alumni of Haven for Hope and understanding a lot of the battles that people go through, the drug addiction and everything. We’re not just serving that meal but also being able to mentor. 90% of my cooks were out there,” Gibson said.
It’s that shared experience that has created a sense of connection, which Gibson stressed can be just as important as the food itself.
“The thing I love about it and the biggest compliment I’ve ever gotten and it’s happened several times, to see somebody actually say it reminds them of their mom. That means they’re escaping here for a little bit of where they’re at. That’s one of the biggest rewards,” Gibson said.
Looking ahead, Gibson hopes to expand Faith Kitchen’s property so the organization can serve even more people in need.
To learn more about Faith Kitchen, click here.