LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Food they say, is the universal language. It binds us all together. That’s exactly why one non-profit began making lasagna in 2020 and continues to churn out tray after tray for those in need.

With just a few ingredients a volunteer for Lasagna Love, Valerie Armstrong has found the perfect recipe for happiness, all in a tray of lasagna.

“At first I was stressed out about getting the perfect recipe. Then I realized I have all the ingredients in my kitchen all of the time, it’s not that hard,” Armstrong said. “I like to add lots of canned diced tomatoes because I like it chunky, ground beef, ground sausage and spinach.”

Each layer is made with love. Armstrong is a busy mom of three young girls aged one, three, and five. Armstrong explained that she had spent much of her life volunteering but it became more difficult as a mom.

“When I became a stay-at-home mom, it was kind of hard to find an opportunity to do it, that was realistic with three little kids,” Armstrong said.

Armstrong began in the summer of 2023 and has already prepared around 80 trays. She shared that she discovered the non-profit, Lasagna Love when she was in need.

“My husband was out of work, and I was pregnant with our third kid, and I was looking for resources for our family. But I felt called to sign up to volunteer instead of request,” Armstrong said.

Now she’s the leader for the Southern Nevada and Southern Utah chapters for the worldwide grassroots movement where each lasagna chef makes what they want, when they want, wherever they can.

Armstrong added that they often share ideas on the volunteer Facebook page since they all cook from home. “We all give each other recipes and hints and share sweet stories.”

Armstrong shared how volunteering has not only benefited her personally but has also provided valuable lessons for her daughters, through teaching them the importance of helping others.

“Doing this has really helped me with postpartum. Serving outside myself,” Armstrong said.”I love taking them with me to deliver lasagnas. They get so excited they’re yelling out the window, Merry Christmas even if it’s July.”

But, Armstrong said her true joy comes from giving.

“A lot of them are single moms or people that don’t have family or church family or any neighbors,” Armstrong said. “Sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough.”

However, the local chapter has already served more than 3,330 meals since its inception.

“We’re all more alike than we think. We all love lasagna, feel a little bit alone sometimes and the littlest thing can make a big difference.”

Armstrong mentioned that she has also prepared dishes like enchiladas and shepherd’s pie for individuals with food allergies.

Lasagna Love is always in need of volunteers. If you can help or need help, click here



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