EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Community Foundation invites residents to support a unique culinary initiative with a special pop-up lunch on Saturday, April 18, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mexican American Cultural Center.
The event will celebrate the first graduating cohort of the foundation’s “Let’s Cook” program, an eight-week course designed to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), according to a news release from the foundation.
Officials said participants have spent weeks building skills in food preparation, kitchen safety, and teamwork, culminating in the opportunity to prepare and serve a meal to the public.
“This event is a chance for the community to see the impact of the program firsthand,” said Adam Tirres in a statement to KTSM. “Our participants have worked incredibly hard, and this lunch is both a celebration of their achievements and an opportunity to support inclusive programming in El Paso.”
Organizers say the “Let’s Cook” program aims to foster independence, promote healthy living, and open doors to future employment in the food service industry, all within a supportive environment. Tickets for the lunch are priced at $20 for adults and $8 for children and must be purchased in advance. Organizers note that space is limited and encourage early registration.
Community members are encouraged to attend, enjoy a meal, and celebrate the accomplishments of the program’s first group of emerging chefs.
For tickets and more information, visit https://epcf.org/letscook.
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