On Wednesday, July 26, over 150 people attended Château Le Jardin for a Pasta Night event in response to the ongoing food shortages and rising costs that have been significantly impacting communities and families across the country. In Ontario alone, there had been a 64% increase in first-time visitors to food banks between 2019 and 2022 (Source: Hunger Report).

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Julian Parentela, president and general manager of Château Le Jardin Event Venue & 27 Developments, Inc. decided to combat food insecurity in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

“Château Le Jardin has always valued the incredible support and generosity of our community. We are immensely grateful for the trust and patronage we have received over the years. Hosting a Pasta Night is our way of showing our appreciation and giving back to the community that has supported us. Food insecurity is a serious issue facing many in our community, and we hope to raise more awareness and provide a comforting meal to our fellow citizens in Vaughan and the GTA, who need it most,” says Parentela.

Many of the attendees are community members who frequent the food banks, along with refugees and asylum seekers (from Ukraine and those who recently arrived from Africa). The Pasta Night served as an opportunity for local food banks, shelters and community groups to come together, fostering a sense of fellowship and unity. Talented chefs skillfully prepared a variety of delicious pasta dishes, providing attendees not only with a comforting meal but also an uplifting experience.

Parentela recalls his father laying the foundation for his motivation to support the community, “For years, my father has always been looking for ways to give back to the community, and it’s because the community has been so good to us. Everyone who has walked through our doors has lit up our lives. So, it’s in my blood to give back. But, in the last few years, we have seen a lot of sadness and negativity, at home and abroad. The one thing I saw on social media was that our neighbours, right here in the city, are lining up at food banks. They may not show it or voice it, but people are struggling, so I felt like I had to do something.”

Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca attended along with other local dignitaries to support the cause. “In the city of Vaughan, we try to do our very best to build a community based on the values of generosity, and tonight’s event with Julian and Natasha Parentela and the entire team that made this possible is such a clear example of that generous spirit and passion,” says Del Duca.

During the event, Château Le Jardin made special donations to each local community organization in attendance. The gathering was private and exclusive to local food banks, community services, shelters, refugees and asylum seekers, with the understanding that this was not a one-time resolution.
 
To further tackle food insecurity, Château Le Jardin welcomed those who were able and willing to support those in need to donate through a designated link. The funds raised would be donated to local community groups in the coming weeks, extending the impact of their efforts.
 
Participating Charities include:

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