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A Loving Spoonful: Food, love, hope and compassion

Each year, the organization distributes an average of 100,000 meals to those who need it most, assisted by a group of volunteers who use their own cars, gas and time each week to deliver meals in Metro Vancouver
Kamloops This Week Staff
Big E Lisa Martella
When Lisa Martella isn’t helping to feed people in need, she can be found cuddling with her rescue cats, Leroy and Jaxie, who like to wake her up at 5 a.m. every morning. Says Martella: "No one living with AIDS should live with hunger."

The Loving Spoonful is a not-for-profit organization in its 30th year of operation.

The charity provides healthy specialized meals, groceries, snack packs and nutritional support to individuals and families affected by HIV and co-existing illnesses.

Each year, the organization distributes an average of 100,000 meals to those who need it most, assisted by a group of volunteers who use their own cars, gas and time each week to deliver meals in Metro Vancouver.

Lisa Martella has been executive director of A Loving Spoonful in Vancouver for more than 12 years.

“I continue to be inspired every day by the kindness and willingness of people who make our communities healthier and even more vibrant,” Martella said.

“The Loving Spoonful is an incredible organization and I couldn’t be prouder of the work and accomplishments we’ve been able to achieve. Seeing how thankful our clients are and watching many of them improving their health is inspiring and creates motivation to see how we can do even more for our community and help others along the way. I’ve also been able to meet some wonderful volunteers and community members who are exceptionally giving, thoughtful and supportive.”

With only 20 per cent government funding, a large part of what the organization does is fundraising. The Loving Spoonful just finished its Candygram campaign that raised in excess of $35,000, providing almost 10,000 meals to individuals and families.

“This is one of my favourite campaigns. For just $10, we mail a Candygram with a special message to spouses, family, friends, co-workers — the possibilities are endless,” Martella said.

Candygrams include sponsored gifts and can be sent across Canada. Those wishing to take part in the 2021 Candygram campaign can register online at candygram.ca.

Other Loving Spoonful campaigns include Dining Out For Life (April), Project Empty Bowl (June 18) and the World AIDS Day Luncheon (Nov. 27).

People can learn more about the organization and support the cause by donating online at alovingspoonful.org. For every $3.55 donated, A Loving Spoonful will be able to distribute a meal to someone in need. No amount is too small and they are always thankful for all the donations they receive.