Nourishing the Soul Through Food and Community
Nourishing the Soul Through Food and Community
Crissy Faison found her purpose through cooking soul food – and now she strives to uplift her whole community by nourishing people in body, mind, and spirit.
Faison has adored whipping up comforting, down-home cuisine since her college days at N.C. A&T University, when she’d fry chicken and bake mac and cheese to feed hungry friends. “You know how it is, especially in college, you’re hungry,” she recalls. “I never thought of it as a business back then, just something I enjoyed doing.”
In 2016, she officially launched her catering company LeanBack Soul Food, turning her passion into an entrepreneurial career centered on generosity. “All food should make you go ‘yum’ and nourish your soul,” says Faison.
Beyond taste, the Winston-Salem resident believes soul food possesses the power to foster togetherness. “It brings people home through flavor and tradition,” she explains. This ethos and commitment to community uplift has fueled Faison as she’s overcome challenges like the pandemic.
Her perseverance and leadership have earned her numerous recognitions Notably, Faison’s dedication and leadership has received national recognition. LeanBack Soul Food was highlighted by UPS in their nationwide campaign celebrating black-owned small businesses – the Be Unstoppable Film Project. Additionally, Crissy was honored as a recipient of Greater Winston-Salem Inc.’s Winston Under 40 Leadership Awards in 2021, a program focused on fostering young professional development and community engagement across the city.
Now through LeanBack Soul Food and her nonprofit foundation, Faison continues expanding her reach while staying grounded in her original intention – spreading warmth through hand-crafted cuisine. In 2023 she launched the GiveBack Fridge Project, with free meals for people in need. She also offers cooking classes for kids.
At the heart of all these community nourishment efforts is Faison’s palpable joy and gratitude. Keeping people well-fed in every sense, from a devoted chef filling plates and hearts.
