GRAND FORKS – After receiving an anonymous donation to jump-start the campaign, Love in Action has raised an additional $14,555 to upgrade its kitchen area into a licensed commercial kitchen at its Center for Community Impact at 818 University Ave.
Since it opened at its new location in August, the Center has been serving about 80 people each day, but the noontime meal has been prepared at and transported from the Salvation Army’s commercial kitchen, some eight blocks to the west.
To qualify for the commercial kitchen license, the Center needs to purchase special equipment and a stove, sink, refrigerator and freezer, said Doris Lebby, president of Love in Action.
Work needs to be done to the roof and an interior wall to allow for installation of an exhaust system and other plumbing, electrical and HVAC requirements.
Love in Action, a nonprofit, faith-based organization, launched the fundraising campaign for its “Kitchen of Love” last fall, Lebby said. About 15 donors contributed to the campaign.
The onsite commercial kitchen will not only provide hot meals but also enhance the Center’s ability to “provide essential services and create a welcoming space for connection and hope.” It’s been “a long process,” Lebby said, noting that her organization worked with the city’s building inspector to determine what improvements were needed to qualify as a commercial kitchen.
But, when completed, it will be worth it, she said. The renovation will “make (meal preparation) so much smoother.”
“Having the food right there, and having the cooking done right there,” will be a big plus for those who prepare the meal and those who consume it.
Ultimately, the new commercial kitchen will allow the Center “to prepare meals more efficiently and reduce our reliance on external facilities,” according to the campaign announcement. “(It) will free up valuable time to engage more deeply with our guests and expand the care we provide.
“We believe in the power of community and the difference a shared meal can make. This new kitchen will allow us to serve with even greater care and create more opportunities for connections, dignity and hope. … We can ensure that everyone who walks through our doors continues to find not just a meal, but a place to belong.”
Lebby expects work to continue through mid-February. During that time frame, normal operations will not be disrupted, since the work will occur after hours. The Center for Community Impact is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and serves a free lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Love in Action is supported by individuals from 10 to 15 churches who prepare and serve the food. Churches and other organizations provide “overflow,” from their food inventories, Lebby said. “Gospel Outreach Ministries supplies all of our coffee.”
There are so many churches involved, Lebby hesitates to begin mentioning them, for fear she may miss some, she said. “We are very thankful to all of them. … They all make it happen.”
The organization also receives monetary contributions that are earmarked for food purchases.
“What makes the Center for Community Impact unique is its focus on hospitality,” according to the Center’s announcement. “Guests are invited to sit down, share a meal and connect with others, fostering a sense of belonging that goes beyond meeting basic needs. (Visitors) find a place of refuge – a safe place to relax, hang out, meet new friends and build community.”
Sharmon Lebby, digital marketing coordinator, said, “Every week, we welcome individuals and families looking for food, free clothing, hygiene items or simply a place to rest.
“This kitchen will allow us to serve more efficiently and dedicate even more time to building relationships and supporting our guests.”
To learn more about the fundraising campaign or to make a donation, visit
bit.ly/kitchenoflove
. Love in Action also welcomes those who wish to volunteer at the Center.