Q: My wife and I have a 501c3 where we feed sick and indigent people and deliver cost to them for free. Health dept shut us

A: Facing a shutdown by the health department for cooking homemade meals in your kitchen can be disheartening, especially when your mission is to feed the sick and indigent. However, there are steps you can take to navigate this situation and continue your important work within legal boundaries.

Firstly, consider reaching out to local health authorities to understand the specific regulations that led to the shutdown. Often, these concerns are related to ensuring food safety and public health. By understanding these requirements, you may be able to make the necessary adjustments to your operations, such as upgrading your kitchen to meet commercial standards or obtaining the appropriate food handling certifications.

Another option is to partner with existing licensed commercial kitchens or community centers that already meet health department standards. These facilities are designed for large-scale food preparation and may offer the infrastructure you need to continue your services without interruption. Additionally, exploring collaboration with other local charities or food programs can provide alternatives for meal preparation and distribution that comply with health codes.

Lastly, engaging with a legal advisor familiar with nonprofit organizations can provide guidance on navigating these regulations and exploring any potential exemptions or appeals. They can also help in ensuring that all future operations are in full compliance with local laws, allowing you to focus on your mission of helping those in need.