Imagine the warmth of a shared meal, the aroma of traditional Colombian cooking filling the air, and the smiles on the faces of children and families coming together. This is the heart of our "Ollas Comunitarias" initiative in Vereda Granizal, Bello, Antioquia – a powerful way to nourish both bodies and spirits in a community that has overcome immense challenges.

Vereda Granizal is home to nearly 30,000 people, the second-largest settlement of internally displaced persons in Colombia. Nearly 90% of its residents are survivors of the country’s long internal conflict, who arrived seeking refuge and a chance to rebuild their lives. Among them are thousands of children and youth who deserve to grow up healthy, supported, and connected to their community.

Since 2023, CBOB has been working alongside Fundación Casa Huellas, Puesto de Salud Oasis de Paz, and Casa de Acción Comunal Oasis de Paz to empower the residents of Granizal. This summer, a core part of our work is centered around the Ollas Comunitarias – community pots where we will prepare and share four large, delicious, and nourishing meals: traditional Sanchoco and hearty Frijolada.

More Than Just a Meal: Building Community and Connection

These aren't just about providing food; they are about fostering a sense of togetherness, offering a moment of respite, and strengthening the bonds within the community. The act of preparing and sharing a meal is deeply ingrained in Colombian culture, and these Ollas Comunitarias will:

Provide essential nourishment: Ensuring that children and families have access to a warm, healthy meal.
Create a space for connection: Bringing people together to share stories, build relationships, and feel a sense of belonging.
Offer a moment of joy and normalcy: Amidst the ongoing challenges, these events provide a positive and uplifting experience.
Engage the community: We will be cooking with the residents of Granizal, fostering collaboration and ownership.

Your Support Will Directly Fuel These Community Meals:

Every contribution to this campaign will directly support the four Ollas Comunitarias we are planning this summer. Your generosity will help us purchase:

Fresh and nutritious ingredients: To prepare hearty Sanchoco (a flavorful stew) and Frijolada (a rich bean dish).
Cooking supplies and materials: Ensuring we have everything needed to prepare and serve these large meals.
Logistical support: To transport ingredients and set up the community meals.

Imagine the impact of a warm bowl of food and a shared moment of community for a child or a family in Granizal. Your donation, no matter the size, will directly contribute to creating these vital experiences.

Click the "Donate Now" button to help us bring these Ollas Comunitarias to life!

Join us in nourishing hope and fostering community in Vereda Granizal. Please share this campaign with your friends and family to help us reach our goal and make these shared meals a reality.

Together, we can share more than just a meal; we can share a moment of connection and care.

Ollas Comunitarias - Medellin 2025

By CHILDREN BEYOND OUR BORDERS INC

Ollas Comunitarias - Medellin 2025