We here in Siouxland get excited for apples when Valentine’s Day comes around. Apples? Valentine’s Day? Most people associate hearts, sentimental cards, and lots of candy with this romantic holiday. But not us Siouxlanders! Every
We here in Siouxland get excited for apples when Valentine’s Day comes around. Apples? Valentine’s Day? Most people associate hearts, sentimental cards, and lots of candy with this romantic holiday. But not us Siouxlanders!
Every year the Siouxland Humane Society organizes its infamous annual fundraiser, “Caramel Apples”. And when the pre-sale dates are announced, be prepared to place your order as soon as possible, since every year they sell out!
facebook.com/siouxlandhumanesociety
the apple project
And we’re not talking hundreds, we’re talking thousands! Over 16,000 to be exact. I buy one every year for two reasons. The first being, I know I am supporting a local non-profit organization. And the second is that I know the efforts with which go into making these apples, which are the best around. The crisp and refreshing tartness of green apples, salty caramel, creamy chocolate, with crunchy peanuts, add the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
facebook.com/siouxlandhumanesociety
My volunteer experience
In order to produce 16,000 apples in one week the Humane Society relies heavily on volunteers from all over to offer their help. I remember meeting a crew of over forty in the basement of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox church.
Surrounded by boxes, pallets and tables full of apples, volunteer work was in full swing. Students from grade school, all the way to high school, young and old, rookies like me and experienced veterans were working side by side.
the process
I first started inserting popsicle sticks into the apples, but shortly found out there is a technique to it. First, wear gloves so you don’t blister your hands, and second, you have to level the apple so the popsicle stick will push straight down. Some apples need more help than others, which may include removing a small slice from the bottom so the apple sits flat. And honestly, the small slice that is removed is not noticeable anyways, since it will be covered in three layers of awesomeness.
After the popsicle sticks are inserted, I was moved on to the next station, caramel dipping! Large bowls of caramel were heated up and spoons were used to lather the apples. However, these spoons were enhanced with an impressively thick layer of aluminum foil to help us grip our utensil, and prevent even more blisters.
Next, after the caramel dried, it was off to the chocolate station, which was the exact same as the caramel process, then finally the white chocolate. Dipping our spoons in melted white chocolate we drizzled a lattice design over the tops of the apples. To complete the process, crushed pieces of peanut shavings were sprinkled and dusted over the top while the white chocolate had not had time to dry just yet.
facebook.com/siouxlandhumanesociety
already planning to volunteer again
Whew! What a procedure! I was there well over three hours, and I loved every minute. I was making apples that would end up in people’s homes all across Sioux City and beyond! I was a part of a cause that would help fund, not only the Humane Society, but our community has a whole. I never felt so connected to my fellow neighbor than I did that afternoon. It was truly a group effort.
they make great gifts!
I remember working at the bank, and one of our customers would buy us all apples every year! Do you have a favorite teacher? Are you thinking of asking someone to be your Valentine? These are perfect hand-made and thoughtful gifts for someone to whom you’d like to show your appreciation.
show your support
Now that you know the efforts put forth to make the apples sold by the Siouxland Humane Society, I hope you are able to purchase your own, and support a local organization. For the past few years the apples have been sold for $20, I’ve bought mine directly from the Humane Society, as well as one year I stopped in for a cup of coffee at Stone Bru, and purchased on there.
Some may say that $20 is a lot, but remember all the volunteers who are investing their time to make all 16,000 apples! Plus, all proceeds stay with the Humane Society, so for me, this is a win-win! I will always support this endeavor every year. And I hope you get to enjoy your apple as well.