Community kitchen to benefit from Council golf tournament

Palgrave United Community Kitchen to install energy-efficient upgrades

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A local non-profit will soon benefit from a charity golf tournament. 

On August 14, the Town of Caledon announced the Palgrave United Community Kitchen (PUCK) would be the recipient of the primary grant from the 2024 Caledon Council Community Golf Tournament (CCCGT). 

PUCK is based out of the Palgrave United Church and is a non-profit that promotes a sustainable food system, hosts cooking and wellness programs, and is a valued community hub for Palgrave.

A grant from the tournament will be given to PUCK, which will use it to complete some highly-anticipated renovations.

PUCK volunteer Barb Imrie said the financial support from the golf tournament will double PUCK's available space. A heat pump will be installed, insulation will be upgraded, and lights will be retrofitted with LED fixtures. Imrie said all the upgrades will help PUCK reach its goal of being carbon-neutral. 

“PUCK is thrilled to continue to offer health and wellness programs, as well as community cooking and culinary entrepreneur space,” said Imrie. “The community kitchen will be able to continue cooking and providing a community hub that supports aging in place.”

Caledon Mayor Annette Groves said the Palgrave United Church is a longstanding pillar in Caledon and she's thrilled to see PUCK being supported. She thanked all the sponsors of this year's CCCGT, as well as all who are set to participate in the September tournament.

This year, Ward 2 Councillor Dave Sheen is the chair of Council's Golf Tournament Committee. He also stressed the importance of PUCK.

“This funding will support the Palgrave United Community Kitchen, a vital community hub offering essential programs and services to Caledon residents,” said Sheen. “We encourage continued donations to achieve our ambitious goals.”

A Town of Caledon news release notes that PUCK has been supporting the Caledon community since 2009. The non-profit is a great source of meals for places like The Exchange (Caledon's food bank) through initiatives like its recently-run Community Cooking Club.

Regional Councillor Mario Russo is supporting Sheen as vice-chair of Council's Golf Tournament Committee this year. He said that PUCK is a truly great organization.

“The community kitchen has achieved remarkable feats over the years, and this funding will propel its growth,” Russo stated. “We invite everyone to participate and support this noble cause.” 

Residents looking to learn more about this year's CCCGT can visit its website at the following link: cccgt2024.com.