From the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is accepting applications for its Culinary Training Program, a free 16-week continuing education course designed to help prepare adults for entry-level positions in the food service industry.
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Since its launch in 2013, the program has helped 525 graduates gain the skills and support needed to start a career path in Central Florida’s hospitality industry. Students receive hands-on kitchen training, life coaching, and job readiness skills, along with a culinary diploma, chef coat, and professional knife set. Participants also benefit from job placement assistance and one year of follow-up support after graduation.
The next session begins September 15, 2025, and runs through January 2, 2026. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, located at 411 Mercy Drive, in Orlando.
“This program is a stepping stone to a brighter future,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest. “By offering continuing education and job readiness support, we’re helping students develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the food service industry.”
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Be authorized to work in the U.S.
- Have experienced financial instability in the last 12 months.
- Be able to attend all 16 weeks in person.
- Reside in Orange, Osceola, or Seminole counties.
Applications are due by September 8th. For more information, or to apply, visit https://FeedHopeNow.org or call 407-295-1066.
The Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is a member of Feeding America – the largest charitable domestic hunger-relief organization in the United States. SHFBCF secures and distributes food and grocery products to more than 870 local nonprofit feeding partners throughout Central Florida. With the help of food and financial donors, volunteers, and a caring, committed community, the food bank distributes 300,000 meals every day to a seven-county service area, which includes Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia. Feeding neighbors facing hunger is only the beginning. By investing in job training programs, advocating for access to nutritious foods, and inspiring our community to get involved, SHFBCF is leaning into the root causes of hunger and helping our neighbors thrive. With support from the Central Florida community, Second Harvest Food Bank is feeding inspiration, change, achievement, health, and families facing hunger. To learn more about SHFBCF, visit https://FeedHopeNow.org.
