A Day Rooted in Purpose and Community
Members of our A Spice Affair team spent a meaningful day serving alongside the incredible volunteers at the CARE Centre Ottawa. From the moment we stepped inside, there was a feeling of warmth, welcome, and unity. The entire experience reminded us of why giving back is such an important part of who we are as a company.
Preparing a Nourishing Meal Together
One of the highlights of our time there was joining the kitchen team to help prepare a hearty lunch for the families who rely on the centre. We chopped, peeled, washed, and prepped ingredients shoulder to shoulder with volunteers whose dedication was truly inspiring.
The meal that day included a nourishing soup made with our A Spice Affair Chick’n Free Broth, a flavorful shawarma sandwich, and a fresh garden salad. The head chef, Hanan, infused so much heart into every single detail. Watching her thoughtfully season and taste and adjust reminded us that cooking is not just a task. It is an act of love.
The Joy of Sharing a Meal
When lunch was served, it felt like a family gathering. Recipients were greeted by name. Conversations flowed with familiarity and kindness. The room was filled with gratitude, connection, and smiles as everyone enjoyed a delicious, thoughtfully prepared meal.
Seeing how much care the volunteers put into each step made the experience even more special. Their teamwork and commitment were moving to witness.
Supporting the Kitchen With Seasoning Essentials
We were grateful for the chance to deliver a large box of our premium spice blends to help stock their kitchen. With donations, creativity, and a lot of heart, the team at the CARE Centre creates incredible meals. It was an honour to support the flavours that bring those meals to life, and we will continue supplying spices to help support the work they do.
A Store Built on Dignity and Choice
Alongside the meal service, we also spent time in the CARE Centre’s community store - a space designed to offer dignity, choice, and a sense of normalcy. Families are invited to shop much like they would in a small grocery market, selecting the items that best support their household.
Fresh produce, dairy, meats, pantry staples, personal hygiene products, and household essentials fill the shelves thanks to the generosity of local farmers, grocery partners, and community members who give from the heart.
Being in this space was incredibly moving. Every interaction we witnessed - from volunteers guiding families with warmth to recipients sharing stories with familiar faces - was rooted in kindness, respect, and genuine care.
A Beautiful Model of Community
One of the most touching parts of the day was witnessing the relationships between volunteers and recipients. The sense of fellowship was unmistakable. People chatted over hot beverages in the cafe-style seating area, shared familiar smiles, and offered encouragement to one another.
It was a powerful example of what can happen when a community comes together and cares deeply for its neighbours.
A Heartfelt Invitation to Give Back
If you are in the Ottawa area, or if you have friends or family nearby, the CARE Centre Ottawa is always grateful for support. Whether it is your time, donations of essential items, or pantry staples, every contribution makes a real difference.
If you choose to reach out, you can mention that you learned about the centre through A Spice Affair. The organizers and volunteers will welcome you with open arms.
CARE Centre Ottawa
500 Viewmount Drive
Ottawa, ON K2E 7P2
info@carecentreottawa.ca
613-693-0890
www.carecentreottawa.ca
Follow Care Centre Ottawa @carecentreottawa on Instagram
