On a recent Sunday, the kitchen in one of Covenant House’s youth spaces was buzzing, the smell of spices and laughter lingering in the air.
Earlier in the month, the group of youth participated in a food budgeting workshop designed to equip them with the tools they need to help take care of themselves, take charge of their lives, and feel empowered, even when times are tough.
Led by Life Skills Coordinator Lillian Gong, these workshops help youth learn how to put together a food budget that fits their lifestyle and needs, plan simple nutritious meals and make smart shopping decisions. They learn where to find the best deals, how to use price-matching apps, and which pantry staples will stretch their dollar the farthest. They also gain valuable skills in meal prepping, reducing food waste, and storing food safely—skills that will serve them long after they leave Covenant House.
“It’s about giving them options,” Lillian said. “No one should have to skip a meal because they don’t know how to stretch their money or make something work with what they have.”
After learning the basics of budgeting and meal planning, the youth selected a recipe they wanted to try and went out into the community. With grocery lists in hand, they scoped out local stores, compared prices and stuck to their budgets, which encouraged them to make thoughtful decisions about every dollar spent.
One young person who is preparing to move into their first apartment, shared how much the experience has meant to them: “I’ve been using the checklist we made every week,” they said. “It helps me feel more organized and less stressed.”
Back in the kitchen, youth were busy chopping and sautéing – working together to prepare a Kenyan-inspired dish passed down through one young person’s family. After learning how to shop for groceries on a budget and building community through cooking, they sat down and enjoyed the meal they created together – sharing not just food, but a sense of accomplishment.