Kansas State’s Ecumenical Campus Ministry sets the table each Friday from noon to 1:30 p.m. for the Real Food Lunch, where students get a free vegan lunch and connect with other community members. This food is prepared by students, for students and served up fresh at 904 Sunset Ave.
Campbell McNorton, senior in social transformation studies and global food systems leadership, serves as the coordinator for Real Food Lunch at ECM. Beyond the atmosphere of communal gathering, the Real Food Lunch is defined by a decade-long commitment to their vision.
“Real Food Lunch began over 10 years ago by two students who loved to cook and saw a need in the community,” McNorton said. “The goal was, and still is, to help feed students and community members alike with ‘real’ vegan food. Since then, it has been a great community-building experience as folks from all walks of life get to gather together over a home-cooked meal.”
ECM is gradually expanding the number of people they host every Friday; currently, they host up to 10 people per week. McNorton plans and prepares all of the meals.
“We aim to prepare the meal with locally-sourced ingredients; the last couple of weeks were made with tomatoes and butternut squash that were donated by a community member,” she said. “We serve a wide variety of vegan dishes. Some favorites include ratatouille, coconut chickpea curry, mac and cheese, warm grain bowls and chili. The meals are a sit-down event, but we also offer to-go options.”
This commitment to high-quality service, combined with the use of local ingredients and a diverse vegan menu, is only half of the experience. The care taken in the kitchen is mirrored in how the meal is served, transforming the simple act of eating into an intentional community event.
“The event and meal itself is an incredibly welcoming space. We foster this space with a no-strings-attached service, where you can simply come in and eat,” McNorton said. “ECM is also known to have a wide variety of hot tea to enjoy and holds a fun, light, musical atmosphere.”
The relaxed and inviting atmosphere is only one part of the equation. More of the experience lies in the conversation that takes place once attendees are seated.
“During the meals, we talk about experiences from the week, various highs and lows we experienced and upcoming events,” McNorton said. “All conversation is welcome. ECM hopes to provide a space where safe connections can be made.”
ECM is always seeking more volunteers to help with Real Food Lunch.
If interested in volunteering for a meal, contact McNorton at [email protected].
