Through the Philabundance Community Kitchen (PCK), Philabundance has proven that it is possible to integrate job training and life skills with emergency food distribution. PCK is a hands-on culinary arts vocational training program that includes everything from basic knife skills and food preparation to job placement assistance. The career-targeted 14-week program provides nearly 500 hours of culinary arts training and also offers exposure to guest chefs, catering opportunities and off-site internships. The result is an 85 percent job placement in the food service industry. In addition, retention services are offered for two full years to ensure that students maximize their training and maintain positive work ethics.

Beyond the practical results of launching more people into the workforce, in 2011, PCK prepared approximately 400,000 meals that were distributed to area emergency kitchens and other locations. With professional guidance from Philabundance staff, students plan and prepare heat and serve meals, often distributed to the very programs at which they once relied. The empowerment of giving back is a powerful force in the success of the Philabundance Community Kitchen, as students gain work and life skills that last a lifetime.

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For information on participating in the program and enrollment, contact:
Desiree Neal, Coordinator of Recruitment and Employment, (215) 235-5052 x126 or email dneal@philabundance.org

If you have already graduated from the program and would like information on available internships or employment opportunities, contact:
Jennifer Williams, Employment and Retention Specialist, (215)235-5052 x130 or email jwilliams@philabundnace.org

For general information about the Philabundance Community Kitchen, contact:
Candace Matthews-Bass, Program Manager, cmatthews@philabundance.org.