Finding Solutions: How culinary students are helping feed others

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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Helms College culinary students are stepping up to serve their community by preparing nutritious meals for students at Heritage Academy as part of recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.

On Wednesday, we stopped by their kitchen where they’re finding solutions in making sure kids have a good meal to eat.

Cooking is a ion for some students at Helms College and this meal right here is special.

More than 200 breakfast sandwiches are going to students at Heritage Academy.

This partnership showcases the culinary talents of Helms students and helps families affected by the storm.

“It feels really good to be able to provide this kind of service for people in the community because I too was affected by the hurricane, and we just want everyone to know that Helms College is for you,” said Justin Hopper, Helms College student.

Once students made it back to the classroom, Heritage Academy Executive Director Tana Watson made it their mission to make sure parents didn’t have to worry about packing meals when so many people were dealing with food insecurity after the hurricane.

“We’re honored and excited by this new engagement opportunity with Helms College,” said Tana Watson, executive director of Heritage Academy.

“We put a plea on Facebook and just asked people to donate. So, it would cost $50 to sponsor a child for two meals for 10 days. The response was beautiful. We got people all over the country who wanted to be a part of this initiative,” said Watson.

She says the plea grew to other organizations and restaurants wanting to help out including Helms College, which is providing breakfast for two days.

“We’re so excited that the students at Helms College have found a way to give back and show their talents to fill the bellies of little learners because once students start their day with a great breakfast, they’re ready to read, write and become mathematicians and explore new ideas,” said Watson.

Chef Christopher Thompson, vice president of culinary operations and education at Helms College, reflected on the significance of this initiative.

“Our students have a unique opportunity to apply their skills in a meaningful way, making a real difference in the lives of those affected,” Thompson said. “This initiative is about more than just preparing meals; it’s about serving our community with comion and demonstrating the power of unity during challenging times.”

Chef Instructor Jana Stewart says this all really goes beyond just cooking.

“It feels great because not only are we able to help the community out, but we’re able to include the students and show them how using their skill culinary arts you can help the community in a time of need,” said Stewart.

As for the students who get to enjoy the food, Watson says they have all been very thankful for it.

“So, it’s just been really special to see how neighbors are helping neighbors, and I hope they feel a deeper connection to this part of Augusta that maybe they are not from, but they found a way to give back in such a beautiful way,” said Watson.

Students at Heritage Academy will receive their last couple of meals from the community on Friday.

Helms College’s meal initiative is an extension of the organization’s mission to uplift the community, ensuring recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene go beyond immediate relief and focus on long-term well-being.

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