Highmark Delaware Donates $125,000 to Food Bank of Delaware’s Delaware Food Works Workforce Development Initiative

September 9, 2020

Highmark Delaware presented the Food Bank of Delaware with a $125,000 donation this morning to support the organization’s workforce development initiative, Delaware Food Works.

Through Delaware Food Works, the Food Bank provides workforce development training to Delawareans in the areas of food service and warehousing/logistics through The Culinary School and L.O.G.I.C. (Logistics, Operations, General Warehousing and Inventory Control). The mission of the initiative is to eliminate food insecurity through workforce development and social entrepreneurship.

“We are pleased to support Delaware Food Works and the Food Bank of Delaware as they continue their work to fight food insecurity,” said Nick Moriello, president of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware. “This multi-faceted program that provides job training to those who need it most, while teaching life and entrepreneurship skills, and offering support services, is impressive. We are excited to see the impact it will have on the individuals enrolled and our community as a whole.”

Thanks to the donation, the Food Bank will be able to provide scholarships for 17 students.

The Culinary School is 14-week program that includes 12 weeks of hands-on training in basic and high-end kitchen skills, safe food handling and life skills. The 12-week training culminates with a two-week paid work experience. L.O.G.I.C. (Logistics, Operations, General Warehousing and Inventory Control) is an 11-week training program that provides training in OSHA-10 safety and the use of major warehouse equipment. A two-week paid work experience is also included. Both programs are certified trade schools of Delaware Department of Education.

“We are thankful for Highmark’s support of our workforce development initiative,” said Larry Haas Chief Development Officer. “We know that in order for Delawareans to no longer need our emergency food assistance services, we need to provide individuals with opportunities to gain employment that pays a living wage.”