It is impossible to think of New Orleans without talking about its food. Known for some of the best restaurants in the world, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to experience the venerable legends of the local food scene as well as new and exciting ventures opening regularly.
Unfortunately one of the other things associated with New Orleans is our high crime rate, with those committed by teenagers increasing rapidly. Hurricane Katrina exposed our failing social infrastructure that has been associated in large part with our public school system. Child poverty, low test scores and high drop out rates have contributed to violence, drug use and illegal activity. “Liberty’s Kitchen”, a new café, catering and training program is seeking to make a difference in our youth populations with their “cooking for a cause” approach by serving disadvantaged youth through an innovative leadership training program.
Set to open in April, Liberty’s Kitchen at 422½ South Broad (across from the Courthouse, hence the name Liberty) will offer an espresso bar serving Starbucks® coffee and espresso beverages as well as a full service kitchen offering breakfast and lunch – all giving their students the opportunity to learn basic barista and culinary skills in a real life setting. Their intermediate strategic plan includes contract meal programs serving nutritious meals to childcare centers, homeless shelters, schools and programs for the elderly. These meals will not only feed those in need – giving Liberty’s Kitchen a dual social purpose - but they will also generate a more stable income that will both sustain and expand their program by providing an additional operational environment for training in a commercial kitchen setting.
This is important work for our community and Swirl is always looking for ways to give back and support local and national non-profits. We are asking you to help us support Liberty’s Kitchen by attending our fundraiser on Tuesday, March 10th where for a mere $20 you’ll sample 6 different dishes prepared by Liberty’s Kitchen Executive Chef Reggie Davis and their catering service, as well as 6 wines poured by Steve Russett of Republic National Distributing Company. Your support helps make it possible for Liberty’s Kitchen to offer students life skills and employability training, occupational training, and job placement, thus providing students with the opportunity to transform their lives and achieve self-sufficiency.
If you’d like to attend, please call 504.304.0635 for a reservation as this event is limited to 40 people. Can’t attend, but still want to help? Go to www.libertyskitchen.org and do your part to help New Orleans’ disadvantaged youth!