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FAQs Archive - AZ Food Help

Q: Are graduates guaranteed a job?

The majority of graduates are working in great careers shortly after graduation. Every individual has different life circumstances, ability levels, and motivation levels that can affect employment; therefore, we cannot “guarantee” employment to every graduate.

Q: Where are classes held?

The training is conducted at St. Mary’s Food Bank in the University of Phoenix Center. The physical address is 3003 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85017. (This is our only location.)

Q: How do people find out about Community Kitchen or LIFT?

The majority of students learn of LIFT from other social service agencies where they are already receiving assistance.

Q: What is the average class size?

For Community Kitchen, the class size is 10 students per session. For LIFT, the class size is 8 students per session.

Q: Do students have to pay for this training?

Thanks to generous community donors, the program is offered at no cost to people who need assistance and are looking for a positive life change.

Q: What is the average hourly wage earned by the graduates?

The average starting wage of graduates once employed is $18.10/hr. Starting wages will depend on students’ attitude, skills and abilities.

Q: What skill level do students have after completing the program?

When students fully participate and practice the skills they learn during LIFT (Logistics, Inventory and Forklift Training) and Community Kitchen, they will be qualified for various positions in food service or the warehouse & logistics industry post-program. Graduates of LIFT receive a 6-week condensed program with a combination of classroom studies and practical learning. When students fully participate and practice the skills they learn, they will be qualified for a warehouse logistics position. Students may potentially earn Foundational-Level Certified Logistics Associate 4.0 (CLA 4.0) ® Certificate and Mid-Level Technical CLT 4.0 Certification (CLT 4.0). Graduates of Community Kitchen receive a 9-week condensed program with a combination of classroom studies and practical learning. When students fully participate and practice the skills they learn, they will be qualified for a dishwasher, prep, or line cook position. Students may potentially earn ServSafe Food Handler’s Card or ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.

Q: Why does this program exist?

To empower individuals with employment barriers to achieve self-sufficiency through job training, personal development, and employment in the food service or warehouse & logistics industry.

Q: Where can I find additional resources?

To find additional food help in our service area, please visit Food Resources in AZ or call our hotline at 602-344-4124 . You may also visit www.benefits.gov or Arizona Department of Economic Security website for information about more than 1,000 benefit and assistance programs. Call 2-1-1 or visit https://211arizona.org/ for other community services, including housing and shelter, health and dental, veterans’ services, employment services, utilities assistance and more.