Aspiring Chef Works Toward Self-Sufficiency

On May 18, Aloha* visited the Kent office site to request a clothing voucher. She initially appeared shy, quiet, and reserved. While case manager Becky conducted an intake assessment of Aloha, she was able to identify from personal experience that Aloha was Laotian.

Becky was then able to begin an easy exchange with Aloha. One of Aloha’s dreams is to become a chef and one day own a restaurant. However, she has been unable to find work because she was mistaken about the renewal date of her green card. Having left the home of her mother and sister, Aloha is currently homeless and living in a shelter in Kent. Becky shared general information about a legal service to help Aloha renew her green card as well as enrollment information for South Seattle Community College’s Culinary Program. Along with these resources, Becky gave Aloha a few bus tickets and what she originally came for – a clothing voucher.

On June 8, Becky received an unexpected visitor. It was Aloha again. She updated Becky about renewing her green card immediately after their first appointment on May 18. The very next day, she visited South Seattle Community College to apply for the culinary program. She was accepted and her tuition was waived. In the meantime, Aloha found a job in a warehouse where her hours are from 11PM to 7AM. She plans to attend her culinary classes in the mornings and early afternoons. As she is still homeless, she will need to find a place to nap. In the intermediate future, she will work toward renting a small apartment.

*The name of this client has been changed in order to protect his or her identity.