Listen, and don’t respond.
These were the instructions given to the food and faith leaders that gathered in Asheville to learn about Food & Stigma with Come to the Table. . The opening activity prompted participants to share about a place they loved growing up and then about a time they received hospitality with a small group – none of whom could respond in any way until they were finished. Listeners were to offer only a simple “thank you” at the end of each story.
Reflecting on the story-sharing activity, participants shared that they found it difficult to listen to others speak without sharing their own experiences and emotions sparked by what they heard. The exercise revealed a way of storytelling that many had not experienced before, in which they shared uninterrupted, with no outside input. For this group, many of whom work in food banks, churches, and community support services, this activity brought up discussions of deep listening and the power of storytelling – both vital elements of giving and receiving care.
The Food & Stigma workshop featured a presentation by Amy Hutchings, the Agency Relations Manager for Western North Carolina’s MANNA Food Bank. Focusing on the food system and those affected by food insecurity, Amy brought the group’s attention to signs of trauma and ways to make food service programs welcoming and hospitable for everyone while recognizing the varied circumstances within their communities. As Amy pointed out, trauma can be exacerbated by the stigma surrounding food insecurity, and her discussion highlighted ways to lower bias, prejudice, and judgement so that food assistance organizations can understand and effectively aid their neighbors.
The group then talked through next steps they could take to transform their own organizations into hospitable spaces that approach food insecurity with the intention to welcome all people while also reducing the experience of judgement and stigma. As they looked ahead, many participants aimed to implement trauma-related training for their staff, integrate more client choice into their services, and increase awareness of the unique and valuable experiences of those they serve.
As Hutchings shared, “food alone will not solve food insecurity.” Creating a space where stories can be shared is a crucial step toward increasing the awareness, understanding, and acceptance that will generate change in the food system.