“PCK changed my life. I would have never applied for the position I have now if it wasn’t for my time at Philabundance. I would have thought that I could not do it, now I’m training for Head Cook.”
Ikia Carrington, Win 18 Cook, Overbrook School for the Blind

Open House Information

To apply, Prospective students must attend a virtual open house, at which they will have the opportunity to hear what PCK has to offer to individuals looking for a second chance in life or a career in the culinary industry.

Choose your preferred 10am open house call date.

In person:

  • 8/4, 8/9, 8/17, 8/24
Please bring a pencil or pen. Attendees should be prepared to take a sixth grade reading and math test. Those who pass will have the opportunity to learn about the next steps
for this adult vocational culinary program.

Virtual open house via Zoom:

  • 8/3, 8/6, 8/13, 8/18
Your application must be completed before being invited to test. The in-person
Open House dates for testing do not apply to your group.
Contact our recruitment team to apply

Required Qualifications

  • Be 18 years or older and qualify as a low- to no-income individual (eligible for or receiving SNAP benefits)
  • Availability Monday-Friday, 7:45 AM – 3:30 PM for 16-consecutive weeks
  • Display highly-functioning mental capacity, aptitude and attitude
  • Be able to stand and walk (unassisted) for up to eight hours
  • No open legal cases

Application Requirements

  • No resume is required
  • Attend an open house
  • Complete application
  • Two recommendation letters
  • Entrance exam (sixth grade math and reading assessment)
  • Writing sample
  • Test negative for tuberculosis

American Culinary Federation

As of 2018, PCK is an ACF (American Culinary Federation) Education Foundation Quality Program, which recognizes culinary- and hospitality-related programs that meet or exceed industry standards for education and training.

Ready to Apply?

Contact our recruitment team

Common Questions

How much does it cost to enroll in Philabundance Community Kitchen?

Thanks to our generous donors and grants, PCK is free to all adults who are eligible for SNAP benefits.

Does the program provide any support to participants?

PCK provides students with a uniform, materials, books, computer/internet access (at the school) and life/employment coaching services during and after graduation. PCK staff also assists in obtaining successful employment following graduation for up to two years.

What kind of skills do students learn?

Students learn entry-level, hands-on and classroom-based culinary and kitchen operations, including safe food handling, knife skills, meat and poultry fabrication, cooking methods and recipe development.

What credentials do graduates receive for completing the program?

Successful graduates complete the program with a Manager’s ServSafe Food Handler’s Certificate ($160 value)(this statement is not needed with the indicator of “successful graduates” at the beginning of the sentence) a certificate of completion and eight college credits transferable to Community College of Philadelphia (towards certificate or Associates in culinary arts.)

Can students enroll with a criminal background?

The program accepts students with previous convictions, excluding sex offenses and open cases (those still in process).

Do you need previous food service experience to qualify?

While experience in food service is a plus, students do not need previous food service experience.

What kind of jobs have past graduates obtained?

Typical graduates are hired as prep cooks, cooks and line staff at area restaurants, supermarkets and institutional food service settings such as Temple University, Einstein Hospital, Chickie & Pete’s, ShopRite, South Jazz Parlor and the Moshulu.