For years Nerlande wanted to be a professional cook. Despite working in restaurants for years, her lack of education and cooking experience kept her from moving forward with her career. She found the professional training and personal growth she needed at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s 16-week Culinary Training Program. “Coming to the program is the best … [Read more...] about Transforming Lives: Nerlande’s Story
Gratitude Stories
You Are Feeding Families and Futures
“The rent eats first,” explains Paula at a food distribution event in Orange City. She and many neighbors lined up to receive groceries at a mobile food distribution event in Orange City before sunrise. “I’m just trying to make things work out,” explains Paula, a single mom juggling work, school and busy kids. Root causes of hunger, like lack of affordable housing, … [Read more...] about You Are Feeding Families and Futures
14 Students Graduate from Culinary Training Program, Launch New Careers
On Saturday, June 10, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 14 Culinary Training Program students during a graduation ceremony. Food bank staff, family, friends and employers joined in the celebration to recognize each student’s achievements. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and gaining kitchen training similar to the curriculum of professional … [Read more...] about 14 Students Graduate from Culinary Training Program, Launch New Careers
Fresh produce for kids and families
Sticker shock and stagnating high prices limit the purchasing power of hardworking families in Central Florida. As shoppers opt for less expensive and less nutritious food options to keep their plates and bellies full, it has short and long-term effects on health and well-being. “It’s hard right now,” explained Kelli at a Second Harvest School Market event just before school … [Read more...] about Fresh produce for kids and families
Transforming Lives: Pascale’s Story
Some kids dream of being astronauts or doctors. Pascale dreamt of becoming a chef. Growing up in Haiti, she envisioned a future where she would fuse Caribbean flavors with different cuisines. She left her homeland to pursue stability, opportunity and culinary dreams. Pascale enrolled in Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida's free, 16-week Culinary Training … [Read more...] about Transforming Lives: Pascale’s Story