Reconnecting Through Food

The Kindness of Leftovers

Hello, dear readers! My name is Marie Espino, and I have the joy and privilege of being a caterer here in the beautiful city of Santa Monica, CA. As many of you know, catering isn't just about creating exquisite meals for events; it's also about sharing experiences and making connections. One of the aspects I cherish the most about my work is what I like to call "The Kindness of Leftovers."

In the catering business, it’s common to prepare a little more food than necessary. Events are unpredictable, and no one wants to run out of that fancy quinoa salad or the delectable chocolate mousse. And so, at the end of most events, we're often left with a bounty of delicious food. While typical practice might be to toss these perfectly good dishes into the trash, I see it as an opportunity to spread kindness and joy in our community.

Instead of discarding the leftovers, I have made it my mission to find ways to distribute surplus food to those in need. I’ve partnered with local shelters, food banks, and community organizations to ensure that meals that were once part of a vibrant celebration can nourish those who are less fortunate. Each time I deliver food, I’m reminded of the faces of those who will enjoy the meals I created. It’s a simple act of kindness that reflects the very essence of what it means to be human.

We live in a world that often overlooks the value of leftovers, both in our kitchens and our communities. When we think about food waste, it’s staggering to realize that millions of pounds of food go to waste every year. According to the USDA, approximately 30-40% of the food supply in the U.S. is wasted. This figure is not just an environmental issue; it’s a humanitarian one as well. In a country where so many people struggle to put food on the table, finding ways to repurpose and share leftovers can have a significant impact.

By engaging in this practice, I've witnessed the profound impact that a meal can have on someone’s day. I remember one winter evening when I dropped off a large batch of leftover lasagna at a local shelter. The staff told me that those warm portions brought comfort and joy to the guests who were staying there. In that moment, I understood that food is more than just sustenance. It’s a means of bringing people together, of fostering relationships, and of nurturing our spirits.

Moreover, my efforts have sparked conversations about sustainability and mindful eating in my community. I’ve organized cooking classes to educate individuals on how to creatively use leftovers, and I encourage my clients to consider their food waste while planning their events. Sharing ideas and recipes has helped others embrace the abundance of food that might otherwise be discarded.

In conclusion, I believe that we can all partake in the kindness of leftovers. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional caterer, let’s take a moment to reflect on what it means to share our bounty. By redistributing what we have, we can foster a sense of community and compassion. Through simple gestures, like donating leftovers, we show that we care, that we are all interconnected, and that kindness can be found in the most unexpected places.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue to spread kindness in our delicious and resourceful ways.

With love from Santa Monica,
Marie Espino