In an effort to raise awareness about hunger, food insecurity and health issues plaguing the American diet, Alfreda’s Soul Food announces the addition of the 4 Soul Bowls to its traditional menu. Troy Williams, co-owner of Alfreda’s, has created four “soul food bowls” that offer a healthier spin on traditional soul food dinners. Some ingredients for the bowls will come from produce supplied by the Lettuce Live Urban Farm Project, and a portion of the proceeds from the purchase of these bowls will benefit the farm.

When patrons purchase one of the new menu items, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Lettuce Live Urban Farm Project.

The 4 Soul Bowl options include the Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo Bowl (savory shrimp & sausage, brown rice, brown roux),Red Beans & Brown Rice Bowl (flavorful fresh red beans, brown rice, and sausage), Shrimp & Sausage Jambalaya Bowl(sautéed shrimp & sausage, brown rice, tomato-based celery, red peppers, onions, and fresh kale/collards) and Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl (savory chicken, brown rice, fresh kale/collards, cabbage, and flavorful broth). Brown rice included in each bowl increases fiber, magnesium and disease-fighting antioxidants. All proteins are air/convection cooked, and fresh collards, cabbage and yams are prepared and cut daily for each bowl.

The collaboration between Alfreda’s Soul Food and Lettuce Live Urban Farm Project kicks off during September’s Hunger Action Month and brings awareness to the increasing issue of food insecurity in underserved and minority communities in the Greater Houston Area. The innovative partnership comes at a pivotal time, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to drain the resources of Houston’s low-income families. Now, more than ever, food deserts and food swamps are weighing on communities of color, highlighting the need for more access to fresh produce, local farms and home edible gardens.

“This multi-faceted project accomplishes so many things. Of course, it raises awareness about food inequity, but more importantly, it provides healthier and more sustainable solutions. We are proud to partner with Lettuce Live, an organization that is already rooted in and committed to our communities,” says Alfreda’s Soul Food co-owner, Marguerite Williams.

“While the pandemic and other unforeseen occurrences have certainly presented a challenge to our business, we know that there are families out there suffering from lack of food and adequate resources. Add to that the overwhelming number of African Americans who are already suffering health conditions induced by poor diet, and you realize that minorities are facing not just a pandemic, but an epidemic food crisis that we refuse to ignore,” says Troy Williams.

Alfreda’s is an historic restaurant known just as much for its delicious soul food as it is for its commitment to civic engagement. Located in Houston’s Third Ward, the eatery has become a cultural hub and mainstay for customers and community members. Despite the financial complications resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, damages sustained from a nearby explosion and the devastating Texas Winter Storm, Alfreda’s still finds ways to give back through volunteer efforts, weekly food donations and second-chance employment for ex-offenders. Alfreda’s was recently named one of 25 recipients of the “Backing Historic Small Restaurants” $1+ Million Grant Program, funded by American Express and administered by National Trust for History Preservation.

For more information about Alfreda’s Soul Food Restaurant, visit https://alfredassoulfood.com/.