STATEN ISLAND, NY — A new food truck launched in April 2025 is providing individuals with autism spectrum disorder the opportunity to learn culinary skills and gain work experience in a real-world setting.
GRACE on Wheels, operated by The GRACE Foundation of New York, pairs participants with professional chefs to learn food preparation, inventory management, order-taking and customer service. The mobile kitchen travels throughout Staten Island and other boroughs, appearing at events, community centers, businesses and festivals.
“This is more than a food truck — it’s a symbol of what our participants can achieve when given the right opportunity and support,” said Cathy Del Priore, executive director of The GRACE Foundation, Sea View.
The program was made possible through a grant from The Staten Island Foundation, which funded the professional chef position. That investment ensures participants receive expert training and mentorship in the culinary arts, Del Priore said.
Laura Jean Watters, executive director of The Staten Island Foundation, said the initiative aligns with the organization’s mission to improve quality of life on Staten Island, particularly for the least advantaged.
“GRACE on Wheels provides training, opportunity, and visibility for individuals with autism while strengthening the fabric of our community,” Watters said. “We are honored to play a part in helping make this vision a reality.”
The program also received support from multiple sponsors. Marvel Consults, UAU and Merge Entertainment served as food truck sponsors. Dan and Kerry Ryan sponsored food shelving, Green Environmental Services funded the menu board, and Never Ride Stock sponsored the truck wrap design.
Additional funding came through a year-end Virtual Wheel campaign, where more than 150 people entered for prizes while raising money for the food truck, according to the foundation.
The menu changes seasonally and features fresh ingredients. All proceeds support GRACE’s programs for children, teens and adults with autism spectrum disorder.
Those interested in booking GRACE on Wheels for events or supporting the initiative can visit www.graceofny.org.
This community news was shared by the organization featured. AI was used in an initial story draft and it has been review by Advance/SILive.com staff.
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