Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida held a virtual ceremony today to celebrate graduates of its Culinary Training Program. The live, online ceremony recognized 43 students who successfully completed the 16-week course. What sets these graduates apart from previous classes is they completed this course amid a global pandemic.
“We couldn’t be more proud of this graduating class,” said Dave Krepcho, president and CEO at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. “Each graduate has worked hard to overcome challenges, and we can’t wait to see what they do next. We’re grateful to local supporters for making programs like this possible.”
Graduates heard encouraging words from Michel’le, who completed the program more than 6 years ago. When she enrolled in the program, Michel’le and her three daughters were homeless. She didn’t have a job or a car. Today she is a preschool kitchen manager, a homeowner, and an example of perseverance.
State Representative Kamia Brown delivered the keynote address in which she encouraged graduates to resolve to stay in motion.
Since launching in 2013, the Culinary Training Program has supported 385 graduates who have gone on to careers in the foodservice and hospitality industries – at no cost of their own. As the Central Florida economy continues to open, this program trains students who are ready to step into open positions.
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