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Organization	Movimento Saúde Mental
Region	Brazil
Website	Website
Facebook	Facebook
Twitter	N/A
ProjectLeader	Ottorino Bonvini

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Imagine a culinary school that was not only good for people but for the environment, too. The Sustainable Culinary School provides free job training in the culinary arts for low-income community members, especially single mother head of households. The school also produces its own solar energy, has its own water source, and grows many of the ingredients - from herbs to fish - used in the classes. Through economic and environmental empowerment, the school will fight multi-generational poverty.

Challenge

Grande Bom Jardim is the poorest region of Fortaleza, Brazil. It is marred by high levels of violence and low levels of education. Poor mental health (which leads to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and poor family relations) is widespread and is largely attributable to a lack of stable employment. Many households in Grande Bom Jardim are headed by single mothers who lack stable employment and are thus at risk for poor mental health and all of its collateral consequences.

Long-Term Impact

The goal is to certify 100 students per year to help them obtain employment in the culinary field. Some students from the pilot class have already started their own businesses, and others are working in restaurants and grocery stores. Others have been hired by the Movement for other projects we've launched. The boost in self-esteem, job prospects, & community ties will have an immeasurably positive impact on both the stability of each student's life and family, as well as the community at large.