ST. PAUL - After shifting and offering its annual spaghetti supper to health care workers in 2021, Portage College is returning to its pre-COVID format for this week's Home Town Spaghetti Supper fundraiser in St. Paul.
On Oct. 21, from 4:30 to 7 p.m., students with the Portage College professional cooking program will be serving a meal of spaghetti and sauce. This year's program includes nine students, which is a smaller than average, according to Jason Sachko, coordinator of the hospitality programs with Portage College.
A smaller group means students will be busy not only on the day of the event, but also as they prepare ahead of time. “But, we’ve got a great class," he says.
“This is a great way for them to not only learn how to make (a large meal) but.... serve the public," adds Sachko.
He says the spaghetti supper fundraiser benefits both the students and the community. Students learn valuable skills, and are rewarded by watching people enjoy the meal. The community gets to enjoy a meal, gather, and contribute to the funds that will be donated to the local food bank.
Last year, due to the ongoing pandemic, the college chose to offer a free take-out spaghetti meal to Alberta Health Services workers as a sign of appreciation.
This year, the college will return to offering a public event that anyone can attend. Tickets for the supper can be purchased ahead of time - which Sachko encourages people to take advantage of. While tickets may be available at the door, it is best to purchase early to ensure you get a spot at the table as tickets are limited.
“The students will be serving the meal buffet style,” explains Sachko. If people can't stay to eat, there will also be take-out boxes available.
Connecting students to the community is important for Portage College. And using the opportunity as a fundraiser for a non-profit that is crucial to those in need is also important.
“Especially right now... we know that it’s tough,” says Sachko, adding, he's heard the demand at many food banks in the region has increased, lately.
One of Sachko's favourite parts of the spaghetti supper is that it brings people from all walks of life together. Also, it's an opportunity to get your hands on "a good meal" and support the local college and its students.
"(Students) are so encouraged when they see people eating and enjoying the food they made.”
The meal costs $10 for an adult, and $5 for children six years old and younger. Students in other programs at the college also get to take advantage of the event by enjoying an affordable meal, paying just $5 for their plate.
Tickets can be purchased in advance from the Portage Market, located at the St. Paul campus, by calling 780-614-6344.
