LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- It was a special night Thursday for eight graduates of the Salvation Army Culinary Arts Training Program.

They just completed a five-week course under a professional chef, learning all the necessary skills to work in a kitchen.

The free course is aimed at lifting people out of poverty by giving them the tools to become self-sufficient.

"Tonight was really worth it. A bunch of anxiety, but Chef Lindsey really made it easy for someone that really had basic cooking skills," said Bridgett Yelder, who graduated from the program Thursday evening. "I feel advanced tonight, so I'm happy and everyone kinda sold my table out so I'm really happy. I got good feedback."

Graduates said it's been a transformative experience.

"It was fun. I've never cooked before, it was my first time ever coming to a cooking class so I was excited to come and Ms. Lindsey taught me a lot and I'm excited to go out and try more, step forward and build confidence off it, it was an amazing experience," Dacey Mahaffey said.

The Salvation Army said six groups graduate from the program each year.

The next session starts May 21 and runs through June 20. The fifth session of the year will be held July 30 through Aug. 29, and the sixth will run Sept. 17 through Oct. 17.

To learn more, or to apply for an upcoming session, click here. 

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