The delicious turkey dinner that students in the Food Services
program at Portland Arts and Technology High School dished up Thursday,
Nov. 20 not only helped them learn about working in the food industry
but also resulted in food donations for hungry Maine families.
PATHS’
Harvest Meal is a tradition at the school that dates back more than 20
years, according to PATHS instructor Rebecca Davis.
Under the
direction of Food Services teacher Philip Divinsky, the students prepare
turkeys – usually 18 to 20 large turkeys, which are donated by PATHS
staff – as well as stuffing, potato, squash, veggies, cranberry sauce,
gravy, rolls and about 100 pies. “They serve the meal to the students
and staff in the building – at least 600 people – as well as inviting
their families to show off their hard work,” Davis said.
The food
service program prepares students for entry-level employment in the food
industry. “This meal is a great way to get the students engaged in the
hands-on preparation of a meal, especially on such a large scale, as
well as to give them an opportunity to experience the customer relations
aspect of it, as they serve all the students in different shifts,”
Davis explained. “This is the only opportunity during the year that the
students get the opportunity to experience buffet-style serving.”
The
program asks that guests bring donations of canned or boxed goods to be
given to the Wayside Food Rescue Program, which was a huge success this
year, Davis said. “Through this the students discuss and practice being
concerned citizens and taking part in the community,” she said.
Wayside Food Programs rescues and distributes food to 47 partner agencies feeding households throughout Cumberland County.
Philip Divinsky, PATHS Food Services teacher, and Ellen Lachapelle,
PATHS office manager get into the spirit of the season at the annual PATHS Harvest Meal.