Yaideliz's culinary journey began in her grandparents' kitchen, where she helped her grandfather prepare meals. Here, she first learned to cook, receiving early exposure to food that would eventually lead her to the doors of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida's Culinary Training Program. Yaideliz's journey was not without its hurdles. One of her most significant … [Read more...] about Yaideliz’s Culinary Journey
“Patience is the key to success.”
Jahaira’s love for cooking blossomed in her grandmother’s kitchen, where she learned to make her favorite family recipes. But the road to pursuing her culinary dreams was far from easy. Jahaira faced serious hardships, including homelessness and bankruptcy, forcing her to live in her car for eight months. Despite these challenges, she never lost sight of her passion. While … [Read more...] about “Patience is the key to success.”
Celebrating New Careers and 500 graduates
On Saturday, November 9, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 25 Culinary Training Program students during a graduation ceremony. This ceremony also celebrated the program's 500th graduate. Food bank staff, family, friends, and employers joined the celebration to recognize each student's achievements. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and … [Read more...] about Celebrating New Careers and 500 graduates
“Find your forte and perfect it.”
Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program provides students facing barriers to employment with the hands-on technical kitchen experience and skills, setting them on a path to excel in life. During the 16-week program, guest chefs are invited to spend time with students to provide enrichment opportunities. These experiences, with new voices and perspectives, allow students to … [Read more...] about “Find your forte and perfect it.”
A Dream Come True
Derrick's culinary journey is a testament to the power of personal growth. His love for cooking, instilled by his grandmother, is the seed that blossomed into a passion. His first taste of the food service industry came as he unexpectedly found himself in a leadership role in a nonprofit kitchen. Reflecting on this challenging experience, Derrick sees it as a turning point that … [Read more...] about A Dream Come True
