CAREC Vacation Canteen Program

During this vacation period, CAREC is proud to operate a community canteen as part of its Vacation Education Training program. Recognizing that a child cannot learn on an empty stomach, our canteen provides nutritious, balanced meals each day to every participant — ensuring that both body and mind are supported.

We believe that feeding a child is not just an act of kindness — it is an act of justice. As one sacred teaching reminds us:

“Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone; let your heart burn with loving-kindness for all who may cross your path.”

Our meals are lovingly prepared, locally sourced when possible, and served in a spirit of respect, equality, and joy. Boys and girls eat together, learn together, and grow together.

Through the canteen, we:

• Support the health and energy of children during training,

• Teach basic nutrition and hygiene practices,

• Offer a space of dignity and community where no one is left out,

• Reduce the burden on families who may struggle to provide regular meals during school breaks.

We also use mealtimes as opportunities for children to practice gratitude, unity, and cooperation, often engaging them in food preparation, cleaning, and sharing.

“If you prepare food, let it be done with the utmost cleanliness, with the finest ingredients, and with loving hands.”

At CAREC, we do more than serve food — we build resilience, love, and community through every meal.

We believe every child deserves nourishment.
We believe care starts with a full heart and a full plate.
We believe in feeding hope.