Under the expert guidance of a chef, the students dedicated their time and effort to cook and package a nourishing mushroom soup in the kitchen of Yasmine’s restaurant.
Under the expert guidance of a chef, the students dedicated their time and effort to cook and package a nourishing mushroom soup in the kitchen of Yasmine’s restaurant.
In a heartwarming display of community service and culinary skills, members of Western’s Arab Students’ Association (ASA) came together on Monday at Yasmine’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine in London, Ontario, to prepare 100 meals for the city’s homeless population.
This initiative marked a new chapter in the association’s community engagement, expanding their traditional participation in soup kitchens to include preparing and distributing the meals themselves.
Under the expert guidance of a chef, the students dedicated their time and effort to cook and package a nourishing mushroom soup in the kitchen of Yasmine’s restaurant. Once prepared, the students personally delivered these meals to various locations downtown, benefiting individuals experiencing homelessness in the city.
Leen Barzak, vice president of the ASA, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, noting its uniqueness. “We have participated in soup kitchens before,” she said, “But this is our first time creating the soup, making it and distributing it.” This hands-on approach not only provided a practical learning experience for the students but also ensured a personal touch in their service to the community.
Hasan Khalid, the charity manager of Western’s ASA, shed light on the motivation behind this initiative. He emphasized the group’s desire to extend their charitable efforts beyond the student community. “This is different because we want to expand and let the London community know that we do care for them,” Khalid stated. “ASA does not only care about the fellow students, but we also care for the community in general.”
Fostering a spirit of inclusivity
This statement underscores the association’s commitment to fostering a spirit of inclusivity and support within the broader London community.
For many participating students, including Khalid, this was their first experience directly aiding people facing homelessness. The event was meticulously planned in collaboration with Yasmine’s restaurant, and the students themselves took the initiative to purchase the necessary groceries a day prior to the event, demonstrating their dedication and organizational skills.
Khalid also shared his personal reflections on the experience, revealing a selfless attitude towards the act of giving. “To be honest, I’m not expecting anything in return,” he said. “I would just like to know that all of us made a difference in the community.” His words encapsulate the essence of the initiative – a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need without seeking recognition or reward.
The initiative by Western’s ASA at Yasmine’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine provided essential nourishment to those in need. It served as a shining example of how students can positively influence and engage with their local communities. It highlights the power of collaborative efforts in addressing social issues and sets a precedent for future charitable activities by student organizations.
The event’s success is a testament to the compassion, dedication, and community spirit of the members of the Arab Students’ Association at Western. It serves as an inspiration for others to follow.
