☕ Cooking and Connection at Moore Place: Gözleme, Tea, and Shared Moments
Mosaic of Charlotte spent a heartwarming day at Moore Place, bringing people together through the universal language of food and conversation. Our team hosted a hands-on cooking class where residents stepped into the kitchen to learn the art of making Gözleme—a traditional stuffed flatbread that is as much about the process as it is about the flavor.
At Moore Place, which supports individuals transitioning from long-term homelessness, these moments of shared activity offer more than just a meal; they provide a sense of belonging and a joyful break in the routine of daily life.
🥟 The Art of the Fold: Gözleme and Teamwork
The kitchen came alive as residents learned to roll out thin dough and select their own savory fillings. Whether it was seasoned ground beef, fresh spinach, or hearty potatoes, each Gözleme was unique.
Hands-On Learning: Watching residents shape the dough and oversee the griddle created a wonderful sense of ownership and pride.
Space for Dialogue: Cooking side by side naturally opened doors for laughter, storytelling, and the kind of connection that only happens over a shared task.
🥣 A Taste of Togetherness
To complement the fresh flatbreads, we shared warm tea and Aşure (Noah’s Pudding). This special dessert, made from a rich blend of grains, fruits, and nuts, is traditionally known as the “pudding of togetherness” and symbolizes generosity and diversity.
Sitting down to enjoy the meal together transformed the afternoon into a true community gathering, filled with the comfort of a warm cup of tea and good company.
“Food is our common ground, a universal experience.”
Experiences like this remind us that food is a powerful tool for restoring dignity and creating genuine human connection.
💙 Thank You to the Moore Place Family
We are deeply grateful to the Moore Place community for welcoming us back with open arms. Your spirit and participation made the day truly unforgettable.
Our thanks also go to:
Our Volunteers who shared their culinary traditions and time.
Our Supporters whose contributions allow us to bring these ingredients and experiences to our neighbors.
Help Us Keep the Kitchen Warm If you would like to support future cooking classes or community gatherings, we invite you to reach out to us at info@mosaicofcharlotte.org. Together, we can keep creating spaces where everyone feels seen and welcomed.
📥 Donate via Zelle: charlotte@divancenter.org
📸 See the Gözleme Making in Action: 👉 View the Instagram Post