PNC Grant Supports Sustainable Food Program and Scholarships at New Health-Focused Campus in Downtown Kalamazoo

The PNC Foundation has been among the first to provide financial support for the new health-focused campus in downtown Kalamazoo by presenting Kalamazoo Valley Community College with an $82,000 grant.

The grant from the PNC Foundation will be divided equally to support the new Culinary Arts and Sustainable Food Systems program at the college and to establish a PNC Culinary Arts Endowed Scholarship. Students in the culinary arts program who meet specific criteria will be eligible to apply for $500 scholarships to help cover their educational costs.

“We’re encouraged by this sign of support from PNC and confident that the momentum will continue to build,” said Steve Doherty, Kalamazoo Valley’s Director of Development.

Students may begin registering for fall semester courses in the Culinary Arts and Sustainable Food Systems beginning April 6. The new program was developed with advisory groups of chefs, farmers, and food industry entrepreneurs incorporating the latest professional culinary standards.

“The Culinary Arts and Sustainable Food Systems program at Kalamazoo Valley Community College offers real-world training designed to prepare students for the working world,” said PNC Community Executive Cindy Kole, speaking on behalf of the PNC Foundation. “PNC’s support of the new health-focused campus reflects our overall commitment to the Kalamazoo community.”

In May 2013, Kalamazoo Valley together with Bronson Healthcare and Kalamazoo Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services announced a partnership to construct a new campus focused on health, sustainability and improve access to and education about food and nutrition.

The $46 million project is being funded by the project partners and others. Organizers are seeking additional funding from area, regional and national individuals, foundations, and businesses.

“Working with our partners and multiple community groups, our goal will be to impact the health of our communities by providing the next generation of culinary and agriculture leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to work at the intersection of health, environmental, and social concerns,” said Kalamazoo Valley President Marilyn Schlack. “This gift from PNC is very much appreciated and will help move us toward achieving our fundraising goal.”