The NYCHA Journal

The NYCHA Journal has informed and inspired residents since 1970, covering the news, contributions, and uplifting stories of the NYCHA community while providing the latest information on Authority initiatives.

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REES Top Story 

Celebrating NYCHA’s Newest Food Business Entrepreneurs 

LaToya

On May 12, NYCHA celebrated the graduation of 22 participants from the Food Business Pathways (FBP) program, which has provided NYCHA residents and Section 8 voucher holders with the necessary tools and knowledge needed to start and grow successful food-based businesses since 2014.  

The free 10-week program is a collaboration between NYCHA’s Office of Resident Economic Empowerment & Sustainability (REES) and various contracted training providers that provides participants with culinary business skills and education, including business coaching, financial planning, and assistance with registrations and necessary certifications to enter the competitive food industry. Graduates also gain access to commercial kitchen incubators, making it easier to launch and scale their businesses. The 2025 Food Business Pathways program is funded by JPMorgan Chase and the Public Housing Community Fund and the training consultant is Open Door LLC. 

“Being in the Food Business Pathways class was both motivating and inspiring,” said TashiaAnn Brown, Cohort 12 graduate and the founder of On The Point Catering. “The information and guidance gained from the instructors will have a good impact on me and my future in the food business. I appreciated the way John and Derrick conveyed the information. I felt empowered throughout the program, and it felt like my goals were attainable. More importantly, it was a great opportunity to network with other talented people in my class. My classmates “showed up and out” at the food presentation with all the different delicious foods and juices. I wish everyone the best, thank you again to the team at the NYCHA Food Business Pathways program.”   

The graduation was held in NYCHA’s Ceremonial Room and attended by the graduates’ family and friends, NYCHA employees, program funders and instructors, and FBP alumni. 

Interested in learning more about Food Business Pathways and other resident business development opportunities? Register for an upcoming REES information session.