Apna Ghar Releases Cookbook With Survivor Recipes

The new cookbook features multicultural recipes collected from survivors of gender-based violence.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Recipes

Bold vector editorial illustration of a ceramic bowl of herbs on a wooden table, representing a collection of cultural heritage recipes. — Chicago nonprofit Apna Ghar released a new cookbook featuring multicultural recipes shared by survivors to celebrate their diverse culinary heritage. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Chicago nonprofit Apna Ghar has released a new cookbook titled Recipes from Our Home, featuring 29 multicultural dishes. The collection aims to share the cultural heritage of survivors who use the organization’s services.

Why it matters

The project honors the backgrounds of survivors served by the Uptown-based nonprofit. All proceeds from the cookbook go directly toward supporting the organization's ongoing work.

The cookbook includes 29 multicultural recipes from survivors across 50 countries. Currently, 75% of the individuals served by the organization are immigrants and refugees.

The players

Apna Ghar

A Chicago-based nonprofit that provides services to survivors of gender-based violence.

The details

Collected over several years during cooking groups, the book features recipes alongside personal commentary from survivors about their life experiences. The volume also includes artwork and designs commissioned from creators based in India, Singapore, and South Africa.

October 20, 2026: Apna Ghar announced the release of the cookbook.
Winter 2026: The cookbook will be available for purchase in bookstores.

Culture Shift

This project reflects the growing use of culinary storytelling in nonprofit advocacy to highlight the cultural identities of marginalized populations. By integrating survivor experiences with traditional recipes, the initiative shifts focus toward personal narratives in community support.

Residents can support the nonprofit's mission by purchasing the eBook or physical version of the collection. The book offers a tangible way for locals to engage with the diverse culinary backgrounds represented in the Chicago community.

The takeaway

This collection serves as both a culinary resource and a platform for survivor voices to be heard. Implementing these recipes at home provides a unique way to celebrate diverse global traditions while supporting local social services.