The Purple Kitchen is a colourful, happy space—and a delight for the senses. Sounds of clinking bowls and clanging pans fill the bright room, alongside aromas of garlic and cinnamon and roasted squash. But the real warmth comes from the budding chefs, sharing stories of their histories and lived experiences.
“I know what it’s like to be homeless and not have any food, and not have a roof over your head,” says Purple Kitchen participant Jennifer.
“So coming in here makes you feel good.”
The Purple Kitchen is a new and innovative food security program created by Lilliana Sanchez and the team at West Central Women’s Resource Centre–one of 125+ community agency partners and programs supported by donors like YOU.
The program began with the intention to teach women how to make healthy, substantial meals out of ingredients normally found in food bank hampers and community pantries. Chef Lilliana helps participants learn to make lasagnas, casseroles, desserts, and more.
The team realized they could also include Food Handling Certificate training as part of the program, so women could not only make their food go further at home—they could also advance their futures with work in the culinary industry.
Since the Purple Kitchen began in February 2025, more than 90 women have gone through the program, with 67 proudly achieving certification as food handlers.
“Only to bring or to put the food in the hands of their community is not enough,” says Lilliana.
“We can do more. Food is love. This is not a simple place where we serve our food.”
