Oct
10
Hurricane Helene Recovery Update
“After Helene hit, I thought my dream of becoming a chef was over,” shared Mike, one of our Culinary Arts Apprenticeship Program students.
The hurricane destroyed several buildings on our campus, including the dining hall and commercial kitchen where he and other youth had learned skills that would shape their futures.
But the dream didn’t end there. With the support of generous people like you, a new plan began to take shape—a kitchen trailer that would keep our students learning, growing, and working toward certifications that lead to real jobs. For Mike, who dreams of becoming a chef, and Morgan, who just graduated and can’t wait to start, this isn’t just a kitchen—it’s a chance to build a future they never thought possible.
Opportunities like this are life-changing for older youth aging out of foster care. 
Without support, many face homelessness, and far too few find stable jobs. But our Independent Living Program offers a different path—one where students are mentored, learn life skills, and build careers they can be proud of. When the storm destroyed our kitchen, it felt like those dreams might slip away. But hope remains.
Thanks to our generous community of support, we now have a fully equipped mobile kitchen, one that keeps students like Mike and Morgan on track to earn certifications, gain confidence, and create brighter futures.