Local man goes from homelessness to certified kitchen cook in culinary

Russell Walker

Russell Walker

The Source Ministries has helped many by offering programs that help people out of homelessness in Sebastian and Vero Beach. Their goal is to end homelessness, and they are one of the few legitimate non-profit organizations with a proven track record that works.

Recently, Russell Walker became a certified kitchen cook with the American Hotel and Lodging Association. The non-profit organization says Walker is “hard-working, detail oriented and very organized!”

His story is one of many people who were homeless. Walker spent a few weeks in the woods before discovering The Source and all the programs and resources they offer. 

It all started in December when his property manager wanted to raise his monthly rent from $1,200 to $1,800. 

“Unfortunately, he couldn’t afford the rent increase, which led to him being homeless. Even though he lost his home, he kept working with the intent to save and get another place, but his car broke down at the same time,” The Source said in a statement.

Walker has come a long way, and with just a little support from The Source, he recently completed the second 6 weeks of their Dining with Dignity Culinary Training program and is continuing for the final 6 weeks. 

He is determined to move forward with his life, and the non-profit organization is privileged to walk beside him on this journey.

In February, Walker was also part of The Source Ministries team that won 1st Place for Wings at the Florida Craft Brew & Wingfest, presented by the Sunrise Rotary of Vero Beach.

“The Source is dedicated to transforming lives in our community. We believe that if you have the ability to work, then we will help you find gainful employment in our community,” Anthony Zorbaugh, The Source Ministries Executive Director, told Sebastian Daily.

Zorbaugh says their wings are called Mo Wings, dedicated to former assistant director Maureen Archer who passed away.

The wings are from its Food Trucks, which has been to Riverview Park in Sebastian during events. We’ll let you know when it comes back to Sebastian. But in the meantime, you can visit their food truck seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Jaycee Park in Vero Beach. 

Not long ago, The Source purchased the Pelican Island Cottages, which changed to Dignity Village, a motel/hotel offering affordable housing. They have since renovated the cottages and are replacing septic with sewer to help the Indian River Lagoon.

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