Dear Friend, I wanted to take a moment to personally thank you. A little over a year ago, I walked into the San Antonio Food Bank burdened with uncertainty. As a father of two, I felt a responsibility to provide a better future for my family but didn’t know how to make that happen.

At the Food Bank, I found a path to self-sufficiency. Through their Culinary Training Program, I gained tools to overcome food insecurity—not just for today, but for a lifetime.

From the very first day of the program, I was nervous. But as I settled in, I realized this program wasn’t just about learning to cook. It was about building confidence, gaining skills, and opening doors to a brighter future. I learned everything from crafting sauces and mastering knife techniques to designing menus and managing recipe costs. More importantly, I began to believe in myself again.

Your generosity as a donor made all this possible. Because of you, I didn’t just learn a skill—I gained a community, a career, and a future for my family. Today, I’m proud to share that I not only work in the culinary field but also mentor aspiring cooks, passing on the same knowledge and hope that changed my life.

In 2025, the Food Bank aims to graduate more than 100 people through job training programs. Will you give today to change the direction of someone’s life? Your support provides resources, education, and opportunities for families like mine.

Thank you for believing in the Food Bank, and in me. Together, we can help even more people find their path to self-sufficiency.

With gratitude,
Jaden Caldwell