THE NEED: 

Each night, the Van Buren Center provides shelter to 248 women, including 300 children. Of those seeking shelter, 90 percent are women. Of those women, 70% are unemployed. These women typically have little to no work options, many obstacles and a limited skill set to finding a stable job or viable career path.

This unfortunate reality creates a chain reaction of instability for women and their children.  

We believe that together, we can change this harsh reality. We can #ChangeHerStory
 

OUR SOLUTION: THE CARING KITCHEN

A workforce development program for women experiencing homelessness that will teach highly sought after, in-demand skills around preparation and food packaging. Women will develop in-demand skills including preparing meals and proper food packaging; providing job placement opportunities, to ultimately give them a career path and stable housing.

Using cutting-edge kitchen technology, we will not only significantly reduce food waste, but also serve up to 50,000 healthy, hot meals every month to children and families in need. 
 

WILL YOU HELP US CHANGE HER STORY? WE CAN'T DO THIS ALONE.

Van Buren Center nourishes the potential of women every single day. But we want to do more. Caring Kitchen is an opportunity to make this path to success clearer.
 

PROGRAM DETAILS

  • Caring Kitchen will offer workplace training to women who otherwise may not have the resources for that training.
  • Beyond workplace training, this program serves as a healing process for women who have been through trauma in their lives. 
  • This program offers an opportunity for sustainability and stability for women.
  • Our ultimate objective is to break the cycle of homelessness.
     

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

DISCOVER what the YMCA of Central Ohio does every day for thousands of people. 
GIVE to provide necessary funds to begin the work place development program.
PARTNER with us in multiple ways to bring this program to life. 

 

#ChangeHerStory

Have questions? Please email caringkitchen@ymcacolumbus.org or call 614-689-2021