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About A Safe Plate, our free e-cookbook
We are thrilled to present A Safe Plate, our new, free-to-download digital cookbook. This isn’t just a collection of recipes; it’s a powerful testament to the healing potential of cooking and storytelling.
Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada has collaborated with young individuals from across Canada who have previously experienced the child welfare system to develop a cookbook full of stories that represent the resilience, strength, and courage that young people from care exemplify in their everyday lives.
The young contributors to this book have poured their hearts into sharing not just recipes, but the personal narratives that connect them to a safe place. Raised in government care and faced with the sometimes difficult task of transitioning into independent life upon aging out of the child welfare system, these young people found solace, connection, and stability in the act of cooking. For them, the kitchen became more than a place to prepare meals; it was a haven that provided a sense of home and belonging.
“Food is a form of art. And while you’re creating your art, you’re doing advocacy work; you’re letting people see who you are inside.” shares Jay, a former youth from care whose journey and culinary passion are featured in our cookbook, A Safe Plate.
Jay is one of the nine youth who contributed their recipe to the cookbook. Their recipe, ‘Jay’s Famous Potato and Lemon Salmon,’ is something they would make to help them have a sense of control
“I came into care as a result of an adoption breakdown; it just didn’t work out with my adoptive parents and I was placed in a foster home. I had some really challenging experiences with food while living in foster and group homes, which led to an eating disorder that I struggled with until the age of 19. It was at that point that I left care and learned how to cook for myself — a skill that helped me feel in control of my life and what I was putting in my body.”
You can read more youth stories by downloading the cookbook for free today.
The recipes that make up A Safe Plate
Interspersed among these heartfelt stories are a collection of nine incredible recipes that hold a special place in the hearts of the young contributors. From Chanice’s macaroni pie to Christina’s “On a Budget” Chili, each dish represents a piece of their personal history and culture or a taste of the comfort and security they have found in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or simply someone who appreciates good food, you’ll discover a diverse array of recipes to try, each with its unique story and cultural significance.
How Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada supports children and young people involved with the child welfare system
Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada plays a crucial role in empowering children, youth and families by ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
As Canada’s leading charity committed to improving the lives of children in and from government care, the Foundation is deeply invested in making a positive impact. We achieve this through a combination of fundraising, grants, and the development of high-impact programs that are executed in partnership with over 104 child- and youth-serving agencies across the country. The Foundation’s programs are designed to address the specific needs of three priority populations: children and families at risk, children currently living in government care, and young people transitioning out of care.
These programs go beyond mere financial support; they aim to provide these individuals with the tools and opportunities they need to build better futures.
How to Get Your FREE Copy of A Safe Plate
Whether you’re a young person involved with the child welfare system, a foster parent, a child welfare advocate, a foodie, or simply curious about the lives of young individuals supported by the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada, this book is a must-read for you. The best part is, it’s FREE! Plus, for every download our generous donor the KARE Foundation will donate $5 to support children, youth and families involved in child welfare on your behalf. By downloading the e-book, you not only get to explore these incredible stories and recipes, but you also become part of a movement to inspire change in the lives of young people.
More ways you can help
In addition to downloading A Safe Plate, you can further support children, youth and families in these ways:
- Donate: Make a donation to Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada to help remove barriers for children and youth involved in child welfare, and encourage a better tomorrow.
- Fundraise: Organize your own fundraiser with friends and family to rally support and resources.
- Share: Spread the word about A Safe Plate with your friends and family on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok using the hashtag #ASafePlate. Your actions can inspire positive change.
