In May 2022, Vilma decided to immigrate to the US to build a better future for herself and her soon-to-be-born son. Initially, she worked part-time as a cashier at Megamart with a $9.50 hourly wage, until her social worker mentioned a tuition-free CulinaryTraining Program at Kitchen of Purpose. She later enrolled in our program. 

Vilma's quick learning and mastery of culinary skills transformed her into a skilled chef. The program served as a pathway to new opportunities, offering improved job prospects, earned certifications, and stability. Currently, Vilma works with us as a cook preparing food at our Cafe and Food Assistance Program. Starting at $15/hour, her dedication earned her a recent pay raise to $17/hour. Vilma takes pleasure in handling large orders, having successfully prepared 400 meals in one day. 

Gerber's dream of establishing a Salvadoran inspired food business came to life after two unfulfilling years working in construction. In 2022, he delved into the Culinary Training Program and later joined the Small Business Incubator. After the program, he earned a pay raise of $33 at his job at Salt Line. With vital support from Kitchen of Purpose, he receives discounted rent for the Shared Kitchen space. His business, "Blanquitas," pays homage to his mother, Blanca, and starts with a focus on Salvadoran bread and pastries. Gerber is an example of how Kitchen to Market transforms lives. He plans to operate two days a week while being a Baking student in our Baking Training Program. Gerber aims to expand into savory foods as his business grows.

Estela is a mother of two and a grandmother of one from El Salvador. Before coming to Kitchen of Purpose, Estela worked three jobs, as a cook and a housekeeper. One of those jobs was working as a Prep Cook at Miriam’s Kitchen, which paved the way for her journey to us. Our culinary training program helped Estela expand her knowledge and skills, resulting in a wage boost from $18/hour to $24/hour. More recently, Estela achieved another milestone in her career with an additional pay raise and a well-deserved promotion to Sous Chef.

During her time with us, Estela learned the importance of being patient with herself when learning a new skill.. She is happy that she pushed through the training despite some challenges that she faced. She is proud of having received education and certifications that helped her enhance her skills, increase her salary, and provide a better quality of life for herself and her family.