Culinary Program At Maryland Food Bank Prepares Students For Jobs

BALTIMORE (WJZ) --  Ten Baltimore area adults graduated from a new culinary program at the Maryland Food Bank Tuesday.

Andrea Fujii has more.

Food has changed Monique Knight's life.

"I didn't graduate high school, so I wanted to cook and this was a perfect opportunity to do so," said Knight, FoodWorks graduate.

FoodWorks is a 12-week program that provides hands-on culinary training, preparing students for jobs in the food industry, as well as certifying them in ServSafe, a leading food industry standard for quality and safety.

"At the end of the day they leave here being very comfortable," said Aida Blanca, FoodWorks instructor. "They can walk into any kitchen, into any setting and pretty much execute."

FoodWorks gave the graduates the experience necessary to find a food-related job. 

Troy Stepney says this new career path will provide him with a stable income needed to support his daughter.  

"That's the best part about this program," said Stepney. "You don't have to look for jobs; jobs come looking for you."

This program is a free service and has already put dozens of people to work.

"It makes me feel really good. I'm very proud of myself," said Knight.

The FoodWorks program is less than a year old.  Three classes, including this one, have already graduated. A new one starts in July.

To get more information or sign up for the FoodWorks program, click here.