Locations/Programs: Community Kitchen: Program Information

The Community Kitchen program provides training and job placement to low-income adults in the foodservice industry. Community Kitchen students learn culinary skills using donated food from the Food Bank to prepare wonderful meals for the hungry in our community. The training program helps people struggling with unemployment and poverty gain the skills needed for jobs offering a living wage, benefits and advancement opportunities.

The program offers classes year-round; new classes begin every 15 weeks. Students learn foodservice skills through hands-on cooking and culinary classroom studies and life skills for success in the workplace. Two of the 15 weeks are dedicated to internships, when students work in the kitchens of local businesses, including resorts, hospitals and corporate cafeterias. Past internship locations have included the Arizona Biltmore, Hilton Suites, St. Luke’s Hospital, Phoenix Day, Aramark, and various retirement homes and school districts.

Community Kitchen staff provide support to each student, addressing personal issues that may arise during the program. Job placement is provided, as well as continued support for 12 months following graduation.

Here’s what a few graduates had to say about the program.
“I have had a blast here learning different skills. I must admit that the road got a little tough, and I wanted to give up, but I didn’t. I kept on climbing up the ladder to success, and I have to admit that I can stand up proud with my head held high, wearing my white coat and knowing that I have put on my coat to a new way of life.”
Marlesha

“Everyone here cares about every student. Anything they can do to help you up in life, they will do.”
Tina

“Regardless of the situation you’re in, once you leave this program you will come out a better person in all aspects. Take full advantage of the training and education that this class has to offer. You won’t be disappointed. As far as I’m concerned, the Community Kitchen is the best kept secret in Phoenix. You will be rewarded greatly!”
Dave

Contact us at communitykitchen@firstfoodbank.org or (602) 343-3183 for more information.
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St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance
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