The Grand River Community Health Centre (GRCHC) is looking for cultural ambassadors to help lead Flavours of Brantford 2.0, a free cooking program for seniors offered in partnership with the City of Brantford and the Brantford Immigration Partnership.
The program, which runs until March 2025, teaches participants how to prepare traditional meals from a range of countries while exploring the cultural significance of each dish. Organizers hope the initiative will foster community connections and combat social isolation among seniors.
Building on a pilot project launched in early 2024, Flavours of Brantford 2.0 debuted in September after GRCHC and the city received $18,590 in funding through the Ontario Senior Community Grant program. More than 130 participants have taken part so far.
“This program helps reduce isolation and encourages seniors to engage with their community,” said Makeda Kafele-Green, GRCHC program coordinator. “We’re excited to continue celebrating different cultures through food.”
The program’s organizers are seeking volunteers from India, the Caribbean, and Blue Zones regions such as Greece, Japan, Italy and Costa Rica to act as cultural ambassadors. The ambassadors will guide seniors in preparing traditional meals while sharing insights about their culture.
Sessions run for two hours and will take place at GRCHC’s Colborne Street location. All materials and ingredients are provided, and volunteers will receive a $100 honorarium.
Adults aged 55 and older can register for the cooking classes, which will focus on cuisine from specific regions each month:
- Africa: Jan. 10 and 17
- India: Jan. 22, 24, 29 and 31
- The Caribbean: Feb. 6, 13, 20 and 27
- Blue Zones: March 6, 13, 20 and 27
Participants can register by contacting GRCHC at 519-754-0777 ext. 222 or by emailing mkafele-green@grchc.ca. Those interested in volunteering as ambassadors can call 519-754-0777 ext. 251 or email mbentia@grchc.ca.
Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis encouraged the community to get involved.
“As an age-friendly community, we are committed to working with local organizations to provide meaningful and accessible opportunities for seniors,” Davis said. “This program is a great example of celebrating diversity while building connections.”
Participant feedback from earlier sessions shows the program’s impact. In October, 89 per cent of attendees said the program helped them feel more engaged in the community, while 78 per cent said it reduced feelings of isolation.
For more information, visit Brantford.ca/FlavoursOfBrantford.
