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Cooksafe: Kitchen 101
Safety & Meal Prep Classes


This year, we are launching kitchen safety and meal preparation classes, open to anyone who wants to build confidence, independence, and real-world skills in the kitchen! We proudly welcome individuals of all abilities, learning styles, and support needs — including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
These classes focus on practical life skills that support greater independence at home and in the community. Participants gain hands-on experience in:
  • Safe knife handling and kitchen tool use
  • Food safety and sanitation practices
  • Meal planning and simple nutrition basics
  • Grocery awareness and budgeting
  • Preparing balanced, everyday meals
  • Cleaning and maintaining a safe kitchen environment

Our approach is structured, supportive, and adaptable. We use clear instruction, visual supports, step-by-step demonstrations, and guided practice to help each participant succeed at their own pace. Skills are reinforced in real-life scenarios that promote confidence beyond the classroom — from grocery shopping to preparing meals independently.

Beyond cooking, these classes encourage decision-making, social interaction, routine-building, and increased self-sufficiency. Participants are not just learning recipes — they are developing meaningful life skills that support community integration and daily living success.

Cooksafe classes are $25 per class. We will be accepting the "Yes Card" for middle school participants and recommend Cooksafe for anyone who can follow simple directions with or without assistance from a buddy!

If you are interested in enrolling, referring a participant, or learning more about upcoming sessions, we would love to connect.

We are hosting an Open House for Kendyl & Friends on JUNE 14, 2026! Please join us for a quick class & safety demo.




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For Families: Why This Matters
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Learning to prepare meals safely is more than a life skill — it’s a confidence builder.
When individuals gain comfort in the kitchen, they often experience:
  • Increased independence at home
  • Greater self-esteem
  • Improved ability to participate in household routines
  • Safer food handling and reduced risk of injury
  • Healthier food choices
  • More meaningful participation in community life
Our classes create a supportive, respectful environment where participants are encouraged to try, practice, and succeed. We focus on dignity, empowerment, and celebrating progress — no matter how big or small.
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For Case Managers & Support Coordinators
Our classes align with goals commonly identified in person-centered service plans, including:
  • Development of daily living skills
  • Increased independence with meal preparation
  • Community integration and participation
  • Skill-building for safe food handling
  • Budgeting and grocery planning
  • Structured social skill development
Sessions can be structured to support documentation needs, measurable skill progression, and individualized goal tracking when appropriate.
We are currently self-pay and working toward waiver provider approval. We welcome collaboration and referrals as we expand service access.
525 KITCHEN
We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment for all participants.
If you need accommodations to fully participate—whether physical, sensory, or learning-related—just let us know. We’ll work with you to make it possible.

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FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY

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525 Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Central Kentucky
  • Home
  • RENT THE KITCHEN
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  • ABOUT
  • FAQS
  • SUPPORT