Community Plate

 Community  Plate   Project  Funding  Donation Gift Request 

Date: 11/20/2025

Introduction

Smoke Signals, a nonprofit volunteer organization, is reaching out to request monetary donations to support the ongoing Community Plate Project. This initiative is made possible through the efforts of nonprofit volunteers, community volunteers, and in partnership with Shepherd Of The Lake Lutheran Church, Prior Lake, MN coordinated by John Holt, Director of Outreach and Mental Health.

Project Overview and Mission

The Community Plate Project aims to continue to provide a free monthly meal in 2026 for all individuals and families, fostering opportunities for people to come together and strengthen community bonds. Meals are hosted in the Upper Great Room at Shepherd Of The Lake Lutheran Church. The overarching mission is to engage the entire community in a collective effort to end hunger.

Impact and Need for Support

Your generous support will enable us to continue serving those in need, helping to keep our community vibrant and strong. By supporting this project, you empower individuals and families to build community through shared meals at the Community Plate initiative. We invite you to join us in supporting local families and individuals on the second and last Thursday of each month in 2026 by making a monetary donation within the range of $500 to $23,000.

Use of Funds and Volunteer Opportunities

Donated funds will be allocated to the monthly bulk purchases of food, beverages, paper goods, and all overhead necessary to create and host the Community Plate event, which occurs on the second and last Thursday of each month served from 5PM-6PM. Engaging local partners is vital and fundamental to budgeting the projected $15,000 needed for the upcoming year 2026. Community groups are invited to participate by volunteering their time for meal preparation, serving, and cleanup each month from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Sign-up link here: https://smokesignals.ivolunteer.com/communityplate2026 

Tax Deductibility and Contact Information

Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Smoke Signals’ 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax ID is 83-2992175. For any questions or concerns regarding your donation, please contact us directly at: sendingasmokesignal@gmail.com.

Legacy and Ongoing Commitment

This outreach project is especially meaningful as it supports exciting new plans for the neighborhood. We appreciate your thoughtful consideration and partnership in serving others. Past legacy Community Partnerships, such as the Meals for Heroes program during COVID, made a substantial difference in the lives of First Responders, Police, and Fire Departments by providing much-needed nourishment during challenging times. Community Plate continues to serve those in need of nourishment today; to date, 1250 individuals have received meal assistance.

Conclusion

Sincerely,

Smoke Signals 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Volunteer Organization

"Bringing together, celebrating, serving, and encompassing community since 2017"

Online Donor box Link: https://donorbox.org/sending-a-smoke-signal  

SOLLC website: https://www.sollc.org/serve     

Smoke Signals Sign-up Link 2025: https://smokesignals.ivolunteer.com/communitymealsproject