The 59th Cake Bake took place the week of October 21. The goal was half-batch of 820 cakes.
Though there are half the volunteers – the smell of the cake, the clatter of trucks and volunteers moving supplies into the church, and the chatter of physically distanced volunteers mixing, prepping, baking, cooling, wrapping (and all of the other tasks) under the watchful eye of the Cake Bake Boss, Lorna McNeil, is a welcome experience, as Cake Bake was cancelled last year.
In the past, cake bake has included volunteers from the English Language Learners program, the community , and other Grace initiatives, as well as friends and family of members. The photo above shows images from cake bakes past and present – while Lorna McNeil, Cake Bake Boss 2021, shows a presentation that shares some of the history of Cake Bake that was created for the 50th anniversary.
By Women, For Women (with Men Included)
Cake Bake was a stewardship initiative of the Women’s Collective and has traditionally benefited organizations that support Calgary women in need, such as RESET, which supports those who are exiting the sex trade, and parents, often single mothers, who struggle with food insecurity, through programs such as Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids.
Men are most welcome – and are also important project volunteers each year.
It’s a Tough Job, but the Cake Bake Boss is on it
Lorna says she runs a tight ship – and often has to get on the volunteers for laughing and chatting. “This is a Presbyterian Church, after all,” she says, winking, as volunteers work, laugh and chat behind her.
Fellowship is the reason that many take part, and some have carried on the tradition that has been passed on from mothers, aunts, and friends. Barb Henson says it’s “the fellowship is what people love – and we missed it last year.” Barb invites a number of friends and neighbours from outside of Grace every year – “they love the experience,” she says.
Can you still order cakes? (Not this year)
Cakes were all pre-ordered this year (it being a half batch and all). If you missed out – you may need to request a piece from a friend.
Next year Cake Bake turns 60 – so keep an eye out for the order forms for the Batch of 2022!
