Last month, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida hosted an in-person graduation ceremony – the first of the New Year – for its Culinary Training Program. Sixteen students were recognized for completing the 16-week course. Roberto Rivera Otero, Chef de Cuisine at Walt Disney World Culinary Concepts, was the keynote speaker.
An integral part of Second Harvest’s mission to fight hunger in Central Florida, the Culinary Training Program was introduced in 2013. Since then, more than 440 students have graduated.
The program is free to eligible students. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and gaining kitchen training similar to the curriculum of professional culinary institutions, students spent part of their days in the classroom, learning career and life skills to help them pursue entry-level food-industry jobs. Graduates also receive occupational assistance and career matching.
For more information about how to apply for, or to make a financial contribution in support of, the Culinary Training Program, visit Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
