Food Hugs: Info and Instructions

Thank you for caring for our Hillhurst community by sharing your love for food and cooking. Your time and talents are so appreciated! The information on this page can be downloaded and printed if you prefer a physical copy. Click the button below to open a PDF version.

Communication

You’ll receive an email from Sue Spicer, our Food Hugs Lead, from sue@foodbydesign.ca. Sue will ask if you’re interested in providing a meal. If the timing isn’t good for you, don’t feel pressured to say yes. Everyone will participate on a rotating basis, and if you’re not able to say yes this time around, your spot in the rotation won’t be affected. With the increased need for meals, we anticipate there will be lots of opportunities to participate!

After your response is received, either Sue or Cheryl Millman, our Congregational Care Lead, will call to confirm and discuss details (such as special dietary needs). Finally, we’ll let the congregant know that you’re dropping off a meal.

Please keep your receipts for any purchases. There is a printable reimbursement form at the bottom of this page. Fill out and drop off the form at the church, addressed to Peter Kelsch, Finance Administrator, or scan and email it to peter.kelsch@hillhurstunited.com.

Sue will regularly email updates, tips, ideas, and recipes to keep you informed and connected to the group.

Questions or comments? Email Sue at sue@foodbydesign.ca.

Packing Containers 

You have received 6 square and 6 round containers with lids – enough for 3 meals. Please use only these containers for providing meals.

• Two containers will equal 4 adult meals. Use either size container to pack meals or baking.

• Do not overfill, leave about ½ inch to allow the cardboard top to seal properly.

• List ingredients and cooking instructions on the white side of the container top (see the instructions below).

• Use the paper bags to transport frozen meals (baking does not need to be frozen), and any additional items.

If you would like to add a small bunch of flowers, a loaf of bread, and a pre-made salad bag to finish off the meal, this is encouraged. You may need a second bag to carry these items. We suggest you pick up additional items on your way to deliver the meal.

We talked about including a signed card from Hillhurst, however, at this time, cards are not in the packages you received. Each delivery is different, so stay tuned from Cheryl or Sue to advise you at the time.

Deliveries

Where possible, we try to match our Food Hug providers and recipients by their location in the city. If you can deliver as well, wonderful! If not, we can arrange for the meal to be picked up and dropped off for you.

Containers & Labeling

Below are detailed instructions on packaging and labeling your dish. Clear ingredient lists and cooking instructions are an important part of food safety.

Containers

Each container has a lid that “crimps” onto the package.

• As mentioned above, do not overfill, as excess will spill out when you try to crimp the lid on.

• Wait until contents are cooled to warm (not piping hot) before putting the lid on and freezing.

• All meals, except for baking, must be frozen and delivered frozen.

Writing Recipe Descriptions

Across the top of the white-facing package, write a descriptive name. Avoid using names like “Beef Casserole,” and instead describe what’s in the dish. For example:

• Beef Chili with Beans and Veggies

• Creamy Chicken with Broccoli and Rice

• Cheddar Cheese, Egg Noodles, and Broccoli

Writing Ingredient Lists

• Using a Sharpie or dark pen, include all of the ingredients used.

• Amounts are not necessary, but all ingredients are.

• List these neatly, using 2 columns on the upper half of the white label.

Writing Cooking Instructions

On the lower half of the label, write instructions for how to reheat. For example:

• Cook from frozen in a 400°F oven on lower rack for 35 minutes. Carefully remove cover and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes until hot and bubbly. 

Label Example

Vegetarian Bean Chili

Serves 4

Place container on a sturdy baking or cookie tray. Reheat from frozen in a 400°F oven on the middle rack for 35 minutes. Carefully remove top and cook an additional 10 minutes.

Kidney Beans                Onion

White Beans                 Sweet red pepper

Black Beans                  Cumin

Corn niblets                  Chili powder      

Diced tomatoes            Carrot

Medium salsa               Zucchini

Fresh Garlic

Reimbursement Form

Click the button below to download the reimbursement form.

Questions or comments about anything on this page? Email Sue at sue@foodbydesign.ca.