Stories of Hope

A Hunger for a New Career

Share

After what felt like a year and a half of nothing, Nate knew he needed to do something.

He had dreams of going to culinary school but knew heโ€™d have to work for years to afford even one class. Thatโ€™s when he learned about Second Harvest Food Bankโ€™s no-cost Culinary Training Program.

โ€œThe moment I heard about the program it felt like hope,โ€ said Nate. He applied the next day.

The Second Harvest kitchen was nothing like his grandmotherโ€™s, where he grew up cooking Honduran food. He started coming in early every day and staying late, taking every opportunity to practice his knife skills and use the professional equipment. He had a hunger for learning.

โ€œMy grandma gave me a passion for cooking, but now I understand the craft behind it.โ€

Nateโ€™s dedication paid off. Today he is working at an assisted living community and preparing hot meals for residents daily. 

Turn your hope into reality.

The Culinary Training Program teaches skills for a sustainable career in foodservice.

Stories of Hope

Real Stories. Real Impact.

Meet the neighbors, partners and volunteers who bring our mission to life. These stories highlight how your support helps fight hunger, fuel futures and strengthen communities
โ€” one meal at a time.

Melody is Doing What She Loves

After repeatedly seeing a social media post for the Culinary Training Program at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida,...

Finding a Future in the Culinary Training Program

Not long ago, Sharin felt discouraged. She loved her job at a grocery store bakery and really wanted to advance....

Feeding Brighter Futures at Second Harvestโ€™s Culinary Training Program

Stay-at-home mom Angeline Cruz was at a crossroads when returning to the workforce: Should she keep her entry-level job at...
Generic filters