A Niagara College Culinary Arts student recently took it upon herself to spread love in the community through what she knows best – food.
Devin Garrah, a second-year student in the Culinary Management (Co-Op) program, came across a post in the “Restaurants of Niagara” Facebook group from a caregiver searching for borscht to celebrate a 100-year-old resident’s birthday.
Borscht, which translates to “sour soup,” is a comforting dish made from a blend of vegetables, broth, and spices, often garnished with a touch of cream to enhance its rich flavor.
As a recent graduate of the Recreational Therapy program, Garrah understood the significance of bringing joy to a senior community member on her birthday.
“Not only did I want to make the borscht to make her birthday special, but to ensure she could embrace the nostalgic memories the dish could bring her,” said Garrah.
Determined to make the best possible borscht, Garrah sought guidance from Chef Professor Olaf Mertens, her professor at the time, for both his expertise in both culinary arts and community service.
Chef Mertens, who leads Niagara College’s Feed the Community initiative–a program where chef professors and culinary students prepare, package, and deliver meals to those in need–was quick to offer his support.
“I thought if anyone could make the best soup from the German cuisine, it was him,” Garrah explained. “I showed him the post asking if he could help, and in true Chef Olaf style, he quickly offered to get me the ingredients and guide me through the process.”
Chef Mertens invited Garrah into his classroom, where they collaborated on creating the borscht.
“It was a special learning experience,” said Garrah. “Not only did I learn how to make the dish, but Chef Olaf also shared insights into German culture as we worked together.”
“When Devin came to me asking for help with this opportunity, I thought it was a no-brainer,” said Chef Mertens. “Devin wanted to do something very special, and I was happy to help support her with this life-changing experience by feeding people from the heart and getting to understand true hospitality.”
Together, they made enough soup for the resident’s birthday celebration and for all the caregivers as well. The community member who requested the dish later shared a heartfelt thank you message on Facebook.
“It was the most delicious soup I have ever had, and Oma absolutely loved it,” the community member wrote in the post. “It brought her back to her childhood. Homemade soup can really feed the soul. Thank you for your time and generosity!”
Reflecting on the experience, Garrah shared how meaningful it was to use her culinary skills to make a difference beyond the College: “I am incredibly lucky to have been part of something so meaningful and would do it over again a million times if I could.”
