Andy

Andy Hope finished St. Joseph Center’s Bread & Roses Training Kitchen program at St. Joseph Center in August 2024, and it changed everything for him. With incredible commitment, Andy achieved perfect attendance and graduated as valedictorian, top of his class. What really helped him were the other students and the staff. Andy said,

“What got me here were my classmates. The staff were also supportive and amazing. I bonded with the students because we all went through some tough times, but here, we were all equals just trying to improve ourselves. It was then perfect environment for me.”For Andy, feeling a sense of belonging and support made all the difference.

The Bread & Roses Kitchen culinary program gives people more than just cooking skills. It’s a safe place where they can learn and believe in themselves again. Andy feels ready to use the support from St. Joseph Center to start his cooking career. He wants to return one day to mentor others, because he’s so thankful for what he received. He believes,

“I am empowered. I know I can do it. And with the resources at St. Joseph Center, I’m not done here. They are helping me move on up and get out there and cook.”

Andy’s story shows what St. Joseph Center is all about–giving people who’ve been through tough times the skills and support they need to not just get by, but to create a self-sufficient life with purpose.