Food Bank applications due Jan. 2 for training in new Milford facility

The Food Bank of Delaware is accepting applications for its free workforce training program. Classes are available in culinary arts and warehousing/logistics. These cohorts will be the first to train in the Food Bank’s new Milford facility.

Culinary class will begin Tuesday, Jan. 16, while the warehousing/logistics class will begin Monday, Jan. 29. The deadline to register is Tuesday, Jan 2. To apply for the free training program, go to fbd.org/delawarefoodworks and select culinary or warehousing/logistics.

The culinary school meets for 14 weeks at the Milford kitchen. Under the instruction of Executive Chef Tim Hunter and Chef Instructor Tish Badamshin, students will learn basic and high-end kitchen skills, and participate in a two-week paid work experience. Participants also have the opportunity to earn ServSafe certification.

L.O.G.I.C. (Logistics, Operations, General Warehousing and Inventory Control) is a 14-week program that includes a two-week paid work experience. Under the guidance of a warehouse instructor, students will learn how to use warehouse equipment like forklifts, end riders, pallet jacks and more. All participants have the opportunity to receive Certified Logistics Associate and Certified Logistics Technician credentials from the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council, and forklift and OSHA-10 certifications.

In addition to accelerated training programs needed to start new careers in just a few months, the Food Bank of Delaware also provides students with job placement; transportation (students are picked up or student drivers receive gas cards); uniforms and supplies; paid work experience; and textbooks.

“Our training programs are truly life changing,” said Cathy Kanefsky, Food Bank of Delaware president and CEO. “Thanks to our incredible donors, we are able to provide this free training to Delawareans who are looking for a fresh start.”