Elena Alois, the third-generation board chair of the Capital Region Food Program, humorously refers to it as her family business. Her grandfather established this organization over 50 years ago, with the aim of providing food to those in need in the Concord area. This weekend, the annual Holiday Project kicks off, offering vouchers for people to purchase food at local Market Baskets from December 14th to January 31st.

Empowering Families with Holiday Food Vouchers

History and Origins

Since 1974, the Capital Region Food Program has been a pillar in providing holiday meals for families facing difficulties. It has a rich history that dates back several decades, with Elena's family playing a significant role. This program has witnessed countless families being supported during the festive season.

Over the years, it has adapted to the changing needs of the community. In the wake of the pandemic, a significant shift occurred as the focus shifted from providing holiday boxes filled with staples to offering vouchers. This change allowed recipients to have the flexibility to choose their own food, providing a more personalized shopping experience.

Impact and Participation

Alois anticipates that this year's Holiday Project will assist 2,200 families, approximately 7,000 individuals, in Concord and the surrounding towns. In the past two years, there has been a 25% increase in participation due to the flexibility of the voucher awards. This growth shows the increasing demand for such assistance and the program's effectiveness in reaching those in need.

Despite the positive trends, Alois expects an even greater increase in participation next year. There could be changes on the federal level regarding different types of programs, which may lead to more state and local community responsibilities. This highlights the importance of the Capital Region Food Program in filling the gaps and providing essential support.

Distribution and Donation

Recipients are identified through municipal welfare agencies and partnerships with religious organizations. This ensures that the assistance reaches those who truly need it. Last year, the holiday program provided over $150,000 in vouchers to 2,250 recipients, making a significant impact on the lives of many.

Outside of the holiday season, the Capital Region Food Program runs a year-round distribution program. They provide donations to help stock local food pantries, such as Christ the King Parish in Concord. This continuous effort shows their commitment to addressing food insecurity throughout the year.

To contribute to this worthy cause, individuals can visit capitalregionfoodprogram.org. Your support can make a difference in the lives of countless families.

Dec. 11, 2024 marked a significant milestone for Taqueria Juanita. This beloved food truck, which started five summers ago by Juana Silva Cortez selling her authentic Mexican tacos, burritos, and more, is now expanding into a restaurant on the west side of Sioux Falls. The journey began with the Taqueria Juanita trailer parked at a gas station on Ninth Street and Kiwanis Avenue. In her third season, Cortez moved to a new spot at 12th Street and Willow Avenue with a vibrant trailer and began reaching a wider audience with events across Sioux Falls.

Realizing the Dream

Cortez and her husband, Miguel Silva Rodriguez, have always dreamed of having their own place. As Cortez said, "The customers have been asking for us to have our own spot so they can enjoy our food all year. It's always been our goal." If the remodeling goes as planned, they hope to open in early January. They have been working hard, painting the interior to make it as colorful as the food truck. The purple food truck is recognizable, and Cortez wants to maintain the same clean and good presentation with the restaurant.

Expanding the Menu

The menu at Taqueria Juanita is set to expand. Cortez plans to include soups and offer her popular birria as a daily meat option. On Sundays, there will be special dishes like menudo, carnitas, and chicharrons. For breakfast, the restaurant will serve items like chilaquiles made with tortilla chips and eggs in red or green sauce, chorizo-and-egg burritos, and a Southwest version with potatoes and other veggies. In the summer, Cortez envisions offering more seafood dishes like parrillada, a fajita plate for sharing with shrimp, octopus, and oysters. The restaurant will also serve beer, Mexican soft drinks, and other beverages.

Operating Model

Customers will place their orders at the counter, and the dining room can seat 50 to 60 people. Rodriguez will continue to work full time at Gage Brothers but will also assist at the restaurant. As Cortez said, "We'll be a family business. Our two older children have already helped on the food truck, and they'll be part of this too. We also have a great team that has been with us for a couple of years. They're like family."

Future Plans

The family plans to keep the food truck and use it for larger special events initially. Someday, if they have enough staff, Cortez hopes to see the food truck operating daily on the east side of the city. To stay updated, follow Taqueria Juanita on Facebook.