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Food Bank accepting applications for Culinary School at Milford until Dec. 19

December 1, 2013

The second class of the new Culinary School at the Food Bank of Delaware’s Milford Branch will begin Monday, Jan. 6, 2014. Applications are being accepted until Thursday, Dec. 19, for interested students.

The Culinary School at the Milford Branch of the Food Bank of Delaware replicates the program that has been in existence at the Newark facility since 2002. Under the guidance of Chef Instructor Tim Hunter, the program provides valuable job training to unemployed and underemployed individuals in Kent and Sussex counties.

Shane Pennell of Milford, a student in the Milford branch’s inaugural class, found a part-time job in the culinary industry early in the training period, and says he enjoys the educational experience the Culinary School provides.

“I don’t miss a day. I’m learning a lot, and I like coming here,” he said.

The 14-week program includes 12 weeks (daytime hours) of hands-on training in basic and high-end kitchen skills, safe food handling and life skills. Students also have the opportunity to become ServSafe certified. The training culminates with a two-week paid internship at a food service company. Upon graduation, the Food Bank of Delaware helps place students in entry-level jobs in the food industry.

“We are excited to provide valuable food service training to local residents,” said Food Bank of Delaware Milford Branch Director Chad Robinson. “We know that in order to end hunger in our state we must provide residents with job training that will lead to sustainable employment. The food service industry plays an important role in Delaware’s economy, and we are proud that we will be able to provide skilled workers to local businesses in the industry.”

Students interested in applying to the Culinary School must have a high school diploma or GED with a ninth-grade reading and math level. The cost to attend is $5,700, but the Food Bank of Delaware works with each candidate to identify funding sources.

First, students are taught skills that are highly desirable to employers in the food industry and second, these newly developed skills have the potential to lead to jobs in the industry that provide job security and economic sustainability.

Students are referred to the program through the Criminal Justice Council, Delaware Department of Labor, Delaware Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Veterans Affairs and other community-based organizations.

For more information or to apply, contact Brenda Palomo, Culinary Arts Program manager, at 302-424-3301, Ext. 107 or bpalomo@fbd.org.

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