SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – Kitchens for Good, a non-profit in San Diego, transforms lives by offering state-approved apprenticeship programs to people facing job challenges. This includes those with mental health issues, the homeless, and individuals with criminal records.
For instance, Jennifer Alarcon is one of the many success stories from this program. After spending eight years in prison, she was unsure of her future. “They promised to teach me, and I kept learning and growing,” Alarcon says. Her journey at Kitchens for Good changed her life, highlighting how the organization helps individuals move beyond their past mistakes.
“Everyone carries a tale that leads to tough times,” Alarcon shares. For her, a bad relationship led to her arrest. During her prison time, she learned to understand and love herself. Nevertheless, leaving prison was daunting. “I was scared of what my life would be like after prison,” she admits. When she heard about Kitchens for Good, she decided to give cooking a try.
Initially, the program begins with ten weeks of kitchen training, followed by working with local businesses to complete a year-long education. Chef Amanda Palomino, an instructor at the non-profit, understands the difficulties apprentices face. “Finding work is tough for many of our apprentices because of their criminal records,” she says. Some participants also need help with childcare or housing. Additionally, Chef Palomino adds, “It’s tough for working parents in the restaurant industry because daycares don’t stay open late.”
Currently, Alarcon now works at Continental Catering in La Mesa, a partner of Kitchens for Good. Chef Daisy Garcia, executive sous chef at Continental Catering, values this partnership. “We work with people from all walks of life. This program helps connect them to job opportunities,” she says.
Furthermore, being called “chef” for the first time was a proud moment for Alarcon. “You earn the title of chef; it’s not just given,” she explains. Since 2014, Kitchens for Good has graduated 800 people, with 80% finding jobs in the hospitality industry. Alarcon dreams of working as a private chef on a yacht and wants employers to give people like her another shot. “See the person for who they are today, not their past,” she urges.
