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Dear Community, Columbia Kitchen would not exist without the tireless efforts of its founders: Carole Clark, Pam Kline, and the late Carol Peckham. What began as a response to an urgent, temporary need at the onset of the Covid pandemic has grown into something far more enduring. Originally known as the Columbia County Recovery Kitchen—now simply Columbia Kitchen, or affectionately “The Kitchen”—the organization has evolved to address systemic food insecurity in a county where roughly 12 percent of residents do not have enough to eat each day. Our founders’ legacy continues to guide and inspire the organization’s mission and continuous growth. Carole brought a wealth of culinary experience to the effort. Before moving to Hudson, she owned and operated a restaurant in the Berkshires, and later opened Charleston in Hudson, a beloved local institution remembered for its excellence. When the pandemic brought daily life to a halt, Carole recognized what was coming. “I knew,” she said, “that many people would be out of work and would need help putting food on the table.” Carole was unwavering in her belief that the meals served should meet restaurant-quality standards. That commitment remains a defining feature of Columbia Kitchen today. Unlike many food programs, we prioritize fresh, nutritious meals, often sourced from local farms and businesses, rather than relying on processed or pre-prepared foods. After her retirement, Carole continues to spread the good word about Columbia Kitchen. For Pam Kline, Columbia Kitchen was a natural extension of years of civic engagement and local activism. In the organization’s early days, she led volunteer recruitment for what was then a fully volunteer-run operation. She traveled across the county, connecting with school social workers and social service agencies, both to understand community needs and to spread awareness about this new resource. Carol Peckham, dedicated to helping neighbors facing food scarcity, also joined early on to tackle technology and social media. “I think the most important thing we did,” Pam reflects, “was open people’s eyes to the reality that in this beautiful, idyllic Hudson Valley county, there are families, children, and older adults who are hungry.” Pam remains actively involved as a volunteer, continuing to raise funds, recruit support, and advocate for what she calls “something I love.” Since its founding, Columbia Kitchen has undergone significant transformation. Now on track to produce more than 100,000 meals this year, the organization has made important structural and administrative changes to support its rapid growth. Key developments include the appointment of Kathy Silliman as Executive Chef, the arrival of Interim Executive Director Joan Koweek, Jolene Race’s transition to Director of Programs, and the addition of a registered dietitian. Investments in technology and software have also improved operations, helping to organize meal production, streamline delivery routes, and ensure compliance with health regulations. Importantly, even as the organization evolves, volunteers remain at its heart as the driving force behind every meal prepared, packed, and delivered. That spirit of shared purpose continues to guide Columbia Kitchen’s future, grounded in a deep commitment to growing together—and with the community we serve. A special thank you to Carole, Pam, and Carol, three dynamic individuals who cared about feeding our neighbors in need. With gratitude, Kyle Patzwahl, Chair, Board of Directors With contributions by Volunteer Writer Jan Greenberg
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