Fresh Start Culinary Workforce Training Program
A new beginning starts here!
Fresh Start is Gather's free culinary workforce training program designed to help you build real skills, gain confidence, and launch a career in the food service industry.
*Deadline to apply is two weeks before the start of each cohort.
For additional information, please contact Tania Marino at tmarino@gathernh.org.
Four training cohorts will take place throughout the year. Deadline to apply is two weeks before the start of each cohort.
Cohort 2 – Training: May 5 – Jun 26 | Application deadline: Tuesday 4/21/26
Cohort 3 – Training: Jul 14 – Sep 4 | Application deadline: Tuesday 6/30/26
Cohort 4 – Training: Sep 22 – Nov 13 | Application deadline: Tuesday 9/8/26
Photos by Kevin Edge Photography
No prior experience or qualifications needed – just motivation to learn!
Who The Program Is For
Fresh Start is designed for people 18 and older who:
Are facing barriers to employment or seeking a pathway to steady work
Are residents of NH or ME
Are ready to commit to growth and opportunity
What Participants Receive
Professional Culinary Training
Career & Life Skills Coaching
Internship Opportunities
ServSafe® Certification
Job Placement Support
Program Details
Length: 8 weeks of culinary and life skills, 9:00am-4:00pm, Tuesday - Friday each week, followed by a 4-week internship
Location: Gather Community Food Center, 124 Heritage Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Cost: Free