John Teeples is a chef for the Legacy Foundation Christine Stamper Center for Help & Hope, also known as the Bullhead City (BHC) Shelter. John can remember being the cook in the house even as early as kindergarten, and he has been searching for a way to help others using his talent since then. After working in the restaurant industry for 35 years, in 2020 he found an opportunity to do even more at the BHC Shelter. One year later, things are still going strong.
Nurturing the Most Vulnerable
“My favorite part of the job is watching them get joy out of eating the food and walking around to the tables and talking to our clients,” John said. He enjoys forming close relationships with the people who come to the shelter searching for a meal. John and his team of volunteers serve two meals every day, pre-preparing meals for the weekends, and even serve individuals with special dietary needs, providing them with the food accommodations they need.
The BHC Shelter is sustained by the kindness of the local community. The team members receive supplies from St. Mary’s Food Bank every other week and even get donations from residents who bring produce from their gardens.
Serving Up Meals with a Side of Hope
There are still opportunities for others to support the shelter. The shelter is hoping to obtain more freezer space to store large donations of meat. John has also put a professional food processor and cheese grater on his wish list, as it would help the shelter prepare more food faster.
Providing meals for those in need has given John a way to serve the community with his talents and compassion. Through his hard work and the work of volunteers, 70 people find food and hope for the future at the BHC Shelter every single day.
If you are interested in helping John serve clients by purchasing new kitchen equipment, please contact the shelter at 928-758-4872.
