Empowering Recovery: A Culinary Journey in San Francisco
A unique culinary initiative in San Francisco is transforming the lives of individuals recovering from mental health challenges. The Slice of Life Catering Program, based at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, provides essential training and support for those eager to rebuild their careers in the food industry.
Humble Smith Francois: A Story of Resilience
Among the recent graduates of this program is Humble Smith Francois, who relocated from New Orleans to San Francisco in search of change. However, the transition proved difficult, leading Humble to experience homelessness and seek refuge in a local women’s shelter.
“I was homeless. I ended up at a women’s shelter here locally and getting better and finding myself in therapy,” said Humble. It was during this therapeutic journey that they discovered the Slice of Life program, which aligned perfectly with their long-held passion for cooking.
A Hands-On Culinary Experience
Over the course of six months, Humble honed their culinary skills through a paid internship that emphasized crucial aspects of food preparation, safety, and presentation. The training included:
- Understanding food safety and hygiene practices
- Mastering cooking techniques
- Learning about proper food temperatures
“From learning the different temperatures of boiling water to learning the different internal temperatures for baking bread, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of kitchen safety and food handling,” Humble explained.
Celebrating Achievement and Future Goals
At the graduation ceremony, Humble showcased their culinary skills by preparing a creamy seafood pasta, stating, “It’s perfectly sauced through every noodle. The salmon has sauce on it but it’s also on the side.” With a certificate of accomplishment in hand, they expressed optimism about their future.
“My goal now is to get a job at a restaurant or café while also attending culinary school to become a fully trained chef,” Humble shared. “I’m going to take all the experience and be the greatest chef that I can be.”
Hope Through Focus
With confidence gained through their training, Humble believes in the possibility of achieving their dreams. “It’s possible. All I have to do is stay focused,” they said.
The Slice of Life Catering Program not only equips individuals with practical skills but also offers a transformative pathway for those seeking to reclaim their lives after mental health challenges.
