Culinary Training Program

After graduating from Second Harvest’s 16-week Culinary Training Program, 470 inspiring individuals have started new careers and turned the page to new life chapters. The program is only the beginning for these hardworking graduates. What comes next for them is to apply the new kitchen and life skills learned during their training. Penielle, a recent graduate, says, “I plan … [Read more...] about Always Learning: Seeking growth after graduation

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida's Culinary Training Program is more about the people than it is about the food. The program's purpose and mission is to provide adults facing various housing, employment and financial barriers with the skills needed to succeed in a new career in culinary arts.  "I don't have to live wondering what's going to happen," says … [Read more...] about Cooking Up a New Career

Stacey's journey unfolded in a series of chapters, each with its own unique challenges and revelations. She relocated to Orlando with aspirations of higher education, but the abrupt shift to online classes due to the pandemic posed unexpected difficulties. Her once-stellar GPA plummeted, casting a shadow over her scholarship. Trying to find a next step, Stacey briefly worked … [Read more...] about Sharpening Skills for a Brighter Future: Stacey’s Story

Dezmond initially thought his career would be in technology but couldn’t resist the allure of culinary arts. During quarantine, his passion for cooking soared. Cooking gave him solace and delight, from whipping creative ramen dishes to preparing his favorite cuisine: Italian food. While volunteering at a local food pantry supported by Second Harvest Food Bank of Central … [Read more...] about The Sky is the Limit: Dezmond’s Story