I do not have the words to express my joy about launching this campaign. Perhaps that is the word... JOY.
I have been cooking for others for over 20 years; preparing healthy, home-style meals for my family and friends brings me joy. Joy is deep enough to embrace the full human experience and, let me tell you, my journey to this exact moment has provided the soaring ups and devastating downs we can experience.
It was my MS diagnosis in 2007 that started me on the path of providing easy-to-make, healthy meals for my family as well as our friends. MS began as a curse that I've been able to turn into a blessing. When the dream of starting my own business became a plan, I was so excited. And, like anything worth fighting for, The Copper Kitchen Catering Company hit wall, after wall. The forst wall was COVID; just as we were building a partnership with Christ United Methodist Church and about to sign a contract. Rather than pause, we reinveted what Welcome Wednesday suppers looked like.
Then, as part of the Restaurant Revitalisation Act, I was awarded a $10,000 grant! However, on the day it was to hit the bank, the program was haulted due to three men (white) that took the federal government to court because they demanded a piece of the "Women and Minority-owned business" share. Strike two. But this Rocky fan refused to stay down... I kept fighting.
I’m grateful to say, that after another year and a half of hard work, blood, sweat, and my share of tears… The Copper Kitchen Catering Company is once again close to opening its own kitchen doors! We still need to purchase a few more pieces of expensive equipment to satisfy the health departemnt's required list. This is where you come in:
We have set a goal of $20,000 to cover cover those costs and fund our futures projects:
1. move the Copper Kitchen out of a ghost kitchen in Kernersville and into Greensboro
2. serve the congregation's food needs at Christ United Methodist Church
3. Expand our catering business in the Triad
4. Prepare healthy meals for families of all sizes
5. Teach others how to cook for their families so that the healthy foods and not resort to unhealthy, fast food.
Time, Treasure, Talents, or Touch. Everyone matters. I profoundly thank you for any gift. I also appreciate you sharing our campaign with your networks and who ever will listen.
With your help, this plan that started as a dream will become a reality.
Joyfully,
Shelby Phillips
Owner & Chef
Copper Kitchen Catering Co.
