Barilla Canada continues partnership with Toronto's Covenant House

Who: Barilla Canada

What: The pasta brand has continued its partnership with Toronto’s Covenant House – a non-profit serving youth who are homeless, trafficked or at risk – for the eighth year to support its Cooking for Life program.

The training program teaches essential cooking skills necessary for employment in the hospitality industry and promotes the value of a nutritious diet.

Barilla Canada and Covenant House came together to present a series of "open recipes" this year through their Open Food Movement, which aims to make traditional pasta dishes like Carbonara accessible to all.

“In today’s world, the simple act of gathering around a table and enjoying a plate of pasta that everyone can enjoy – no matter their background or dietary preferences – has a lasting impact,” said Gino Rulli, vice president and general manager of Barilla Canada, in a statement. “There has never been a better time to educate students on how to create inclusive recipes that consider dietary restrictions, affordability, and accessibility of ingredients. Plus, pasta still remains one of the most affordable ingredients that you can serve. It’s why Barilla is committed to continuing to support the Cooking for Life program and its mission to educate Canadian students about the importance of healthy cooking, no matter what their background or economic status.”

This year’s partnership kicked-off on March 28 with a two-day Cooking for Life workshop sponsored by Barilla and hosted by the brand’s executive chef, Tim Minefee.

Since its inception, over 400 young people have graduated from the Cooking for Life program, with 83% earning their food handler’s certificate, 50% retaining employment with their placement employer and 50% securing a position with another employer or going back to school.