Created By: UBC Learning Exchange
Save on Meats
Originally operating as a Butcher shop in 1957, Save on Meats has since undergone a major transformation into one of the DTES neighborhood's most well known social enterprises. With a focus on addressing food insecurity in the community, the enterprise now operates dually as both a butcher shop and vintage diner that serves a wide range of clientele from various socio-economic backgrounds. To better serve their community, the enterprise's storefront operations work in conjunction with A better Life Foundation which makes and distributes over 1,700 meals per day to various SRO’s and partnering organizations in the DTES. Additionally, Save on Meats provides its customers with several opportunities to directly support its community meal program by purchasing meal tokens or taking part in the diners monthly Greasy Spoon fundraising event. For larger groups of patrons looking to collectively give back and engage with the local community, Save on Meats runs a unique community event known as Plenty of Plates. At this event, groups of patrons work alongside a local chef to prepare a three-course meal which is then served and shared at the diner with local residents of the community. Beyond its successful economic impact, events like Plenty of Plates provide the opportunity and space to strengthen community relationships through the creative outlet of cooking. Additionally, all sectors of the Save on Meats enterprise provide low barrier employment opportunities for residents of the neighborhood.
COVID update - Currently, Save on Meats has halted all customer-facing operations and fundraising events such as the Plenty of Plates and Greasy Spoon events to adhere to COVID restrictions. Its community meal program will remain operational to combat the heightened level of food insecurity from the pandemic.
To support the enterprise during this time customers are still able to donate to enterprise's, A Better Life Foundation https://www.abetterlifefoundation.ca/donate/
And buy Meal tokens on the Save on Meats website http://saveonmeats.ca/product/tokens/
This point of interest is part of the tour: Learning Exchange Walk
Please send change requests to changerequest@pocketsights.com.