Emma's Torch

Emma's Torch

Civic and Social Organizations

Brooklyn, New York 1,303 followers

We provide top-notch culinary training to refugees and help them find meaningful careers in the food industry.

About us

For refugees coming to America, one of the hardest parts of the transition can be finding a new job, particularly one that is the starting point of a meaningful career. A job is important for more than a paycheck: it is a chance to meet new people, practice language skills, and find a sense of fulfillment and self-worth. Enter Emma’s Torch, a non-profit social enterprise. Our mission is to train refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking in the culinary arts and to empower them to build meaningful careers in the culinary industry. Our students participate in a full-time paid culinary training program that prepares them for successful employment in an industry in which their heritage and cuisine can be celebrated. We provide a community in which they can build supportive relationships. Founded in 2016, we opened our first permanent restaurant location in Brooklyn in 2018. Since then, we have opened a cafe in Washington, DC and also operate the cafe at the Brooklyn Public Library. Emma’s Torch honors Emma Lazarus, a staunch advocate for refugee rights whose poem, “The New Colossus,” adorns the Statue of Liberty.

Industry
Civic and Social Organizations
Company size
11-50 employees
Headquarters
Brooklyn, New York
Type
Nonprofit
Founded
2016

Locations

Employees at Emma's Torch

Updates

  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    We’re proud to have Compass Coffee , as a valued employment partner. Our alumni, like Manizha from Cohort 4, are thriving in a supportive and flexible work environment. “Compass is a great place to work!” Thank you, Compass Coffee, for your commitment to empowering our graduates and fostering a positive workplace culture.

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  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    🥁 Drumroll, please! We're obessed with this new mini-documentary about Emma's Torch! Watch how we transform lives through culinary training and empowerment. Our program equips refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking with essential skills to build meaningful careers and contribute to their new communities. See the impact we make every day and join us in celebrating this incredible milestone. With huge thanks to the Clayton Dubilier & Rice Foundation and to Notfilms for funding and creating this video. #Empowerment #NonProfit #CulinaryArts #SocialImpact #CommunitySupport

  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    This Labor Day, we honor the dedication and resilience of our students, staff, and alumni. At Emma’s Torch, every meal is a testament to hard work and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to build a brighter future. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for supporting the incredible individuals who make it all possible. Wishing everyone a restful and meaningful Labor Day! 🌟

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  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    We’re excited to share that our Executive Culinary Director, Alexander Harris, and Teaching Chef, Morgan Aye, have successfully completed the Catalyst Kitchens Train the Trainer workshop! Their participation has brought valuable insights to our team. Thank you, Catalyst Kitchens, for this incredible opportunity! We look forward to more collaborations in the future.

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  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    Did you know that our program includes culinary-focused English classes? ㅤ We know that success in the culinary industry requires more than having excellent cooking skills. Our graduates need to be able to communicate inside and outside of the kitchen. ㅤ By incorporating English lessons into our program, we are helping our students gain independence and the ability to advocate for themselves. ㅤ Stop by one of our cafes today to support our students on their educational journey!

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  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    We're honored to have hosted Care Forward's Care Hero Awards at Emma’s Torch Cafe in July! Care Forward is an organization that enhances the conditions of domestic work through community engagement, fostering discussions between workers and employers to improve pay and work conditions. This event celebrates those who champion the rights and dignity of domestic workers & highlights the ongoing efforts to support individuals who make a profound impact on their fields every day. Thank you to everyone involved for making it such a meaningful evening!

    Domestic Worker empowerment organization celebrates their heroes, by Nathan Weiser

    Domestic Worker empowerment organization celebrates their heroes, by Nathan Weiser

    star-revue.com

  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    At Emma’s Torch, we extend our educational approach beyond traditional culinary skills. Our comprehensive program includes essential professional development like English language proficiency, resume building, and job readiness training. This holistic preparation not only enhances culinary skills but also equips our students with the necessary tools to thrive as well-rounded professionals in the culinary industry. Join us in supporting their transformative journey. #ProfessionalDevelopment #CulinaryTraining

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  • View organization page for Emma's Torch, graphic

    1,303 followers

    The Clayton Dubilier & Rice Foundation was established with the goal of enabling “Equity through Opportunity,” something we work towards every day at Emma’s Torch. As a workforce development nonprofit, Emma’s Torch aims to empower our newest, most vulnerable community members so that they are empowered to launch successful careers in the culinary industry and build their lives in the United States.

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Funding

Emma's Torch 1 total round

Last Round

Grant

US$ 4.3M

See more info on crunchbase