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Kansas City’s Third Annual Gumbo Fest Celebrates Community

Families enjoying gumbo at Kansas City Gumbo Fest 2023

News Summary

On April 26, 2023, Kansas City will host its third annual Gumbo Fest at St. Paul’s Day School, showcasing a day of gumbo tastings and live music. Organized by The Prospect KC, the festival highlights community resilience and supports efforts to tackle food insecurity. Attendees can enjoy diverse culinary offerings, participate in kids’ activities, and witness local chefs compete for the title of Best Gumbo in KC, all while celebrating a noble cause.

Excitement Builds for Kansas City’s Third Annual Gumbo Fest

Mark your calendars, food lovers and community supporters! On April 26, 2023, Kansas City is set to roll out its much-anticipated third annual Gumbo Fest. Taking place in the heart of midtown from noon to 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s Day School, this bonanza is not just about delicious food—it’s a celebration of community resilience and culinary excellence, all while supporting a noble cause.

A Symbol of Adaptation

This year, the festival embraces gumbo as a powerful symbol of adaptation through struggle and resistance. Nothing says resilience quite like the rich, comforting flavors of this iconic dish, which has roots in various cultures and communities. It’s a mouth-watering testament to how we can come together and thrive, even in tough times.

Supporting a Worthy Mission

The event is organized by The Prospect KC, a non-profit social enterprise founded in 2019 by Chef Shanita McAfee-Bryant. The organization’s mission? To tackle food insecurity and systemic inequities caused by food apartheid. They utilize a variety of programs, including workforce development, case management, and even childcare, to help individuals and families gain a foothold in the community.

A Feast for All

gumbo tastings that will tantalize taste buds, complemented by vibrant live music from the Back Alley Brass Band. It’s a family-friendly affair, with free kids’ activities ensuring that everyone, young and old, has an exciting time. And for the competitive foodies out there, ten local chef teams will be vying for the prestigious title of Best Gumbo in KC. Expect some fierce competition, especially considering past winners included the renowned Lula Southern Cookhouse and The Prospect KC Culinary Students, who boast two victories.

Affordable Fun

Getting in on all this deliciousness won’t break your wallet either! Tickets start at just $15. This is a small price to pay for an afternoon of great food, music, and fun—all while supporting a fantastic cause.

Empowerment Through Education

The success of The Prospect KC is bolstered by a recent $10,000 grant from The Jacques Pépin Foundation (JPF), aimed at enhancing the organization’s mission to empower lives through culinary education. This grant is part of a larger initiative that supports 16 organizations using the culinary arts to improve lives and strengthen communities.

Making a Difference

With funding from JPF, The Prospect KC plans to serve a staggering 150 women, 215 youth, 80 unhoused individuals, and 150 housed but impoverished students by the end of 2025. They aim to provide at least one million meals during this time, which will go a long way in alleviating food insecurity in the area. Additionally, students will benefit from branded aprons and a group membership to the Foundation, further enhancing their culinary skills.

A Focus on Workforce Development

JPF’s executive director highlighted how critical The Prospect KC’s Workforce Development Initiative is for addressing generational poverty and crafting new employment opportunities within the culinary industry. It’s all about providing the tools and training necessary for participants to succeed—and what better way than through the love of food?

Join the Celebration

So whether you’re a gumbo aficionado or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, mark April 26 on your calendar. Come savor some delicious gumbo, catch some live music, and be a part of a community focused on resilience and hope. Kansas City’s Gumbo Fest promises not only a delicious day but also a boost for those who need it most.