Spotlight:

2008 Partnership Award: Paula Konarski

Café George owner Paula Konarski told us, “Giving back to the community is what my mother instilled in me at a young age. Whatever position you may find yourself in during your lifetime, giving to others in need not only serves the most obvious purpose, but truly satisfies the giver in such a personal way that nothing else [money, success, recognition, etc.] can ever satisfy.” Connecticut Food Bank is very fortunate to have a friend who wholeheartedly follows this mantra.

Paula has earned degrees in business, marketing, and radiation therapy technology science. During her studies she supported herself by working in the restaurant business, a job she first began at age 14. In 1999, she opened her first café and catering business on Orange Street in New Haven, called “Paula’s Deli & Catering.” Her culinary skills, vast restaurant background and hard work proved to be an instant success. The business grew, and in 2003 she opened a larger business, “Café George by Paula,” located at 300 George Street in New Haven.

Paula’s partnership with Connecticut Food Bank began in 2006 when she became a Food Rescue Operation donor. Every week since February 2006, Paula has donated prepared foods from her café that are picked up and delivered to local member agencies of Connecticut Food Bank. In that time, she has given 4,865 pounds of food, equivalent to the same number of meals.

Paula resides in the Westville section of New Haven with her boyfriend, Matt, and their son. In her very little spare time, Paula enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as boating, scuba diving, traveling, art and music, and cooking at home.

Connecticut Food Bank was proud to present to Paula Konarski a Partnership Award for her commitment to the Food Resource Operation program and dedication to our mission to help our neighbors in need.