Community Pie Prep

Purpose of the Activity

This activity is designed to provide residents with a meaningful and purposeful role in a larger community event, like a holiday dinner or special celebration. It taps into lifelong skills, promotes teamwork, and fosters a sense of contribution and pride. By helping prepare the food, residents become integral partners in creating a festive experience for everyone. The sensory aspects of baking, from the smell of spices to the feel of dough, can also be comforting and evoke pleasant memories.

Materials Needed

Ingredients:
Pre-made pie crusts (refrigerated rolled crusts are easiest)
Canned pie filling (e.g., pumpkin puree, apple pie filling, cherry)
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
Sugar and flour for dusting surfaces
Eggs and milk for egg wash (optional, for top crusts)
Butter or margarine
Equipment:
Large, stable tables and comfortable chairs
Disposable tablecloths for easy cleanup
Aprons for residents
Food-safe disposable gloves
Multiple sets of mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons
Rolling pins (if using dough from scratch)
Spatulas and whisks
Pastry brushes
Disposable or reusable aluminum pie pans
Large-print recipe cards
Labels or masking tape and markers to label finished pies
Access to a hand washing station with soap and paper towels

Estimated Duration

60 to 90 minutes. This allows for a relaxed pace with plenty of time for socializing.

Ideal Group Size

6 to 10 residents. This size is manageable for one or two staff members and ensures everyone can actively participate without feeling crowded.