SAN ANTONIO – A local bistro, through a partnership with Haven for Hope, ensures those experiencing homelessness in San Antonio are fed, especially during the cold weather.
St. Vinny’s Bistro serves three hot meals daily, 365 days a year.
Executive Chef Lorris Gibson Jr. said when cold weather events happen in San Antonio, the team works ahead to ensure no one misses a meal.
“When this cold weather is bringing our brothers and sisters in, we want to make sure we are giving them hot, nutritious meals, but plenty of it,” Gibson said. “They are already fighting food insecurity.”
Based on past weather events, Gibson said they may serve upward of 575 meals a day, compared to a typical 480.
“You remember the snow deal we had a couple of years ago,” he said. “We got through that by planning ahead. We don’t know what is going to happen. We always operate in an emergency situation, but when the cold stuff comes, we know everyone is going to be brought in, so we are getting prepared and getting ready to serve.”
Because of this, Gibson said they prepare by having at least two weeks of additional food on standby.
They can make this happen because of generous donors and volunteers.
In his 10-year experience working at the bistro, Gibson said that he understands how important it is to be prepared to serve quality meals.
Gibson added in his history of being homeless, he knows how important it is to make people feel dignified, no matter what struggle they may be experiencing.
“Being able to come in here and take advantage and understand where you are at, that is the toughest struggle,” he said. “And you are treated with compassion. That is the biggest thing. We know there are things out there that people experience but just coming in here and making that first step, you will be amazed at what you can achieve and accomplish.”
Gibson hopes that feeding more people during this time will help some of them turn their lives around. The organization can always use more donations and volunteers during these cold snaps.
If you are interested in serving with them, visit their website.
