Emma's Torch

?? Drumroll, please! We're obessed with this new mini-documentary about Emma's Torch! Watch how we transform lives through culinary training and empowerment. Our program equips refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking with essential skills to build meaningful careers and contribute to their new communities. See the impact we make every day and join us in celebrating this incredible milestone. With huge thanks to the Clayton Dubilier & Rice Foundation and to Notfilms for funding and creating this video. #Empowerment #NonProfit #CulinaryArts #SocialImpact #CommunitySupport

What started as a small pop-up in Brooklyn has grown into a movement. Emma’s Torch has expanded across multiple locations, creating life-changing opportunities through culinary education. Each milestone is a testament to the resilience of our students and the power of a community that believes in second chances. Here’s a look at how far we’ve come and we’re just getting started! #EmmasTorch #WorkforceDevelopment #CulinaryEducation #SocialImpact

Collaboration creates change. Honored to be part of YMCA’s global initiative supporting career pathways and economic mobility. At Emma’s Torch, we believe in equipping individuals with the tools to build their future. Thank you to YMCA for highlighting this important work. ??: Watch the full video by searching ‘Global Pathways to Meaningful Work’ on World YMCA's YouTube channel. #EmmasTorch #WorkforceDevelopment #YMCA #SocialImpact World YMCA

At Emma’s Torch, we know that talent is everywhere—but opportunity isn’t always within reach. That’s where partners like Compass Group come in. As one of the world’s largest food service companies, they don’t just serve meals; they shape the industry. And they believe, just like we do, that the future of food should be built by everyone, not just those who had a head start. That belief is why the Compass Group Foundation invests in organizations like ours—organizations that provide training, support, and pathways to careers for refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking. Because a job isn’t just a paycheck—it’s stability, confidence, and a step toward independence. With their support, our students aren’t just learning knife skills. They’re gaining real experience, earning wages, and stepping into careers where they can thrive. The Compass Group Foundation’s investment in Emma’s Torch—and in our students—is helping to build a food industry that is more inclusive, equitable, and full of passionate people ready to make their mark. This is what change looks like. This is what the future of food should be. And we’re honored to be part of it. ?? Read More: https://vist.ly/3mwi2sb

On February 20, we celebrated a remarkable group of students from the NYC Humanitarian Emergency Response & Relief Centers (HERRCS). They came to our kitchen seeking stability and a future—and they built one against all odds. Midway through their training, their shelter closed. Faced with uncertainty, they didn’t back down. They arrived earlier, stayed later, studied harder. And the Emma’s Torch community stepped up, proving that support can change lives. Graduation wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. Today, many of these graduates are stepping into full-time roles at Radio Bakery, Daily Provisions, Borgo, and more. A heartfelt thank you to HERRCS and everyone who believes in our students’ potential. Their future—and ours—is brighter because of them. #EmmasTorch #WorkforceDevelopment #CulinaryTraining #RefugeeEmpowerment #SocialImpact Daily Provisions Tacombi

This Women’s History Month, we honor a woman whose words changed the course of history. "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." Emma Lazarus didn’t just write a poem, she ignited a movement. Her words on the Statue of Liberty became a beacon of hope for those seeking a fresh start. At Emma’s Torch, we carry that promise forward. We don’t just teach culinary skills—we empower refugees, asylees, and survivors of trafficking to reclaim their futures through food. #EmmasTorch #WomensHistoryMonth #WorkforceDevelopment #SocialImpact

Growth happens one step at a time—one skill learned, one door opened, one future built. At Emma’s Torch, 2024 was a year of transformation, filled with determined students, new career opportunities, and a thriving culinary community. With each milestone, we are reminded of the power of education, training, and collective support. Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s make 2025 even more impactful! #EmmasTorch #WorkforceDevelopment #CulinaryEducation #SocialImpact #CreatingOpportunities

Word of mouth speaks volumes—especially when it comes from those who’ve been through the journey themselves. Last year, 38% of our students came to Emma’s Torch because a friend or family member (often an alum!) referred them. That kind of trust means everything to us. It tells us that our graduates aren’t just walking away with new skills—they’re walking away with confidence, community, and careers they’re proud of. And that’s exactly why we do what we do. To our students, past and present: thank you for being part of this growing network of changemakers. Your success is our greatest endorsement.

We’re honored to be featured on “The Good Side” segment by Arielle Hawkins and Debra Alfarone, highlighting our mission to empower refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking through culinary education. To watch the full segment, visit our website, go to “About,” and click on “In The News.” #EmmasTorch #CulinaryTraining #SocialImpact #Empowerment

?? Milestone Moment: 500 Graduates & Counting! ?? We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Emma's Torch as they celebrate an incredible milestone—graduating their 500th participant on February 20, 2025! ??? This remarkable achievement highlights their commitment to transforming lives through culinary education. For almost ten years, Emma's Torch has served as a vital beacon of hope and opportunity, empowering individuals who are refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking. Their comprehensive program offers not only hands-on culinary training but also career readiness workshops, mentorship, and community support, all designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the competitive food industry. ????? Each graduate of Emma's Torch embodies resilience, determination, and a vision for a brighter future. By completing this program, they are not just gaining culinary skills; they are opening doors to new career opportunities, fostering a sense of belonging, and building a supportive community. Join us in celebrating this significant milestone by sharing your thoughts and encouragement for Emma's Torch in the comments! ???? Here's to the next 500 graduates and their positive impact on the culinary world and beyond! #CatalystKitchens #EmmasTorch #500Strong #CulinaryTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #SocialImpact