Let’s be real: the world feels like a bit of a mess right now. Prices are up, resources are stretched thin, and somehow, despite living in the land of plenty, too many people are still struggling to afford food and find steady work. It’s frustrating. It’s unacceptable. And it’s exactly why organizations like Stone Soup PDX need your support now more than ever.
The Urgency of the Moment
I wish I could tell you that things are getting easier for workforce training and food security programs, but the reality is… not so much. Social service funding is facing cuts, policies are shifting, and some of the most vulnerable members of our community are at risk of falling through the cracks. That’s not just a bummer—it’s a full-blown crisis.
When funding disappears or priorities shift elsewhere, real people pay the price. The single parent trying to build a better future, the young adult aging out of foster care, the refugee looking for their first job in a new country—these are the folks who rely on programs like ours. And when those programs aren’t there? Well, let’s just say the job market doesn’t get any kinder, and the grocery bill doesn’t magically shrink.
The Real Impact of Programs Like Ours
At Stone Soup PDX, we do more than just teach people how to chop onions without crying (though, to be fair, that’s an important skill). We provide hands-on, real-world job training for individuals facing barriers to employment, giving them the skills and confidence to build a stable career in the food industry. Our participants aren’t just learning how to cook; they’re gaining the tools they need to change their lives.
And here’s the other piece of the puzzle: food security. Every week, our program helps provide thousands of nutritious meals to our community. In 2024 alone, we served 67,431 meals—an average of over 1,200 meals each week—partnering with local organizations to ensure that food reaches those who need it most, including shelters, social service programs, low-income seniors, and youth in mental health housing. While our job training participants help prepare these meals, they’re not the ones who rely on them—we’re creating opportunities for them while also serving the broader community. It’s all connected: good jobs, steady income, and access to food create a ripple effect of stability and success.
The Power of Community-Driven Solutions
It’s easy to feel powerless when you hear about big, system-wide problems. But here’s the thing: local, grassroots organizations like ours are where real change happens. We aren’t waiting for top-down solutions or hoping that someday, someone else will fix things. We’re doing the work. Right now. Every day.
We see firsthand how investing in people changes lives. A graduate who once struggled to find work is now thriving in a retirement community kitchen. Another participant, who kept his evening shift as a dishwasher while going through our program, was eventually promoted to Kitchen Manager—a position with a $64,000 salary and benefits. These aren’t hypothetical success stories—they’re real people who just needed a chance. And because of community-driven support, they got one.
How You Can Help
If you’ve made it this far (thank you, by the way), you might be wondering: What can I do? I’m so glad you asked! Supporting Stone Soup PDX doesn’t require a massive commitment—just a willingness to stand with us in whatever way you can.
Donate – Every dollar goes directly toward training, meals, and making sure our program remains accessible to those who need it most.
Volunteer – Whether you have kitchen skills, business expertise, would like to deliver our meals, or just an extra pair of hands, there’s a place for you here.
Partner – If you’re an employer, a food business, or a community organization, let’s talk about how we can work together.
Advocate – Talk about the importance of workforce training and food security. Share our story. Let your networks know why this matters.
The Bottom Line
Times are tough, but you know what’s tougher? A community that refuses to let people fall behind. Stone Soup PDX is proof that when we invest in people, we create lasting change. We’ve got work to do. And with your help, we’ll keep doing it.
Join us. Stand with us. Let’s make sure everyone gets a seat at the table.
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