Courtney Found the Courage to Change her Life

Courtney learned a new career-sustaining skillset at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s Culinary Training Program, but the biggest change she experienced was in her confidence.

When she first started the program, Courtney expressed uncertainty that it was the right path for her and wasn’t confident she could work in the culinary field. She lived in emergency housing with her son and heard about the program from a social worker there.

Culinary Training Gave Krystal a Career and Hope

When Krystal started the Culinary Training Program, she did not expect it to change her life the way it did.

“I didn’t think it was anything, and it was more than I could have expected,” Krystal said. “I wish everybody could come to this program. It’s giving me hope that I can have a career (to better support) my kids.”

Creating a Legacy: Jean’s Story of Starting Over

Starting over isn’t easy, but sometimes it’s necessary. Jean left his home country of Haiti to escape political violence and seek stability and opportunity in the United States. Arriving here, he felt like he was beginning again at zero. It was a hard truth to accept but rather than let it discourage him, he saw it as a chance to build something better.

Transforming Lives: Angeline’s Story

After spending three years at home with her son, Angeline was ready to return to work but lacked experience and skills. Her Head Start social worker introduced her to Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program.