We’re thrilled to share an exciting partnership between Inclusion NB, Greener Village, and L’Arche Fredericton, focused on empowering individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability through weekly cooking classes.
Greener Village, located in Lower St. Mary’s within Fredericton’s city limits, has grown from a traditional food bank into a community-focused organization supporting self-sufficiency and empowerment. In addition to providing food assistance, Greener Village offers diverse resources, including a Unique Boutique, rentable community garden boxes, hands-on training workshops, and—an Inclusion NB Social Inclusion Program favourite—their Learning Kitchen. Each initiative aims to foster resilience and community connection, making Greener Village a valuable support network for individuals and families alike.
L’Arche Fredericton, a dedicated community partner, operates a hub model that supports individuals with different abilities in actively engaging with their community. In partnership with Greener Village’s Learning Kitchen, L’Arche offers weekly cooking classes led by the skilled Red Seal Chef Yves Dechaine. These sessions provide hands-on culinary training while fostering independence and confidence in the kitchen. Thanks to funding from the Department of Social Development’s Disability Support Services Program, participants can enjoy this empowering experience at no cost, making it accessible and impactful for all involved.
Inclusion NB’s Social Inclusion Program connects participants with meaningful social relationships, fosters strong support networks, and enables involvement in recreational and volunteer activities of their choice. It also focuses on life skills development, which is essential for future independence and preparing for a home of one’s own. Inclusion NB has proudly collaborated with Greener Village’s Learning Kitchen
Cooking as a Path to Independence
For individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability, building life skills is an important step toward greater independence. Cooking is one of those essential skills. Each week, Chef Yves works with participants to master basic recipes, with the focus on using current ingredients available at each cooking station.
By providing recipes that change based on what’s available at Greener Village, he encourages adaptability and problem-solving. With every class, Chef Yves helps participants gain more than just a new recipe—they leave with the skills and self-assurance to be more independent in their own homes.
Voices from the Kitchen: Marcus and Annie’s Experience
Annie, aged 47, another participant, has found joy in the process. “My favorite thing about the class is cooking,” she says enthusiastically. “It is important to become more independent. I like making dessert.”
For Marcus, aged 26, the cooking classes have become a valuable learning experience. “I appreciate the patience,” he shares. “It’s nice to talk to people, make simple items, and figure out how it works.” He explains that the classes have helped him build confidence. “It helped me feel more confident about making food for my family. I hope to cook for myself in the future.”
Support and Guidance: INB’s Involvement
To ensure Marcus and others receive the support they need to thrive in the class, Shellany Brewer, a Social Inclusion Coordinator from Inclusion NB, will join in the sessions. Shellany works closely with Marcus, observing his progress and ensuring he feels comfortable and confident. Her role goes beyond simply attending the classes; she’s there to support Marcus’s journey toward greater independence and building a network of community.
“To be able to reach out to the community when looking for opportunities to enhance a person’s independence is beyond rewarding,” says Shellany. “It’s always a treat to return to the kitchen as the weeks pass by to see how much growth is happening with all the participants of the Culinary Class. It’s more than just cooking happening in that space.”
The class is designed specifically for individuals with disabilities and follows a progressive learning model running from June to May. For those interested in inclusive programs open to all abilities, the Learning Kitchen at Greener Village offers Nutritional Education sessions. These programs can be accessed through Eventbrite, with a dedicated sign-up link. Food bank members can participate at no cost, while non-members are welcome to join for a small registration fee.
If you or someone you know is interested in registering for the next set of cooking classes, please contact L’Arche Fredericton: https://www.larchefredericton.org/. A reminder that these classes are open to everyone in the community registered through L’Arche.
