JTA Partners with Clara White Mission to Operate Café for Employees
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority and the Clara White Mission held a ribbon cutting ceremony, on September 5, for “Clara’s Canteen” at the JTA Myrtle Avenue Campus.
Under this partnership, the Clara White Mission will operate the Canteen Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Canteen will offer quick breakfast and lunch service to JTA employees and contractors. All daily proceeds from the Canteen will benefit the Clara White Mission Culinary Arts training program.
“We are excited to partner with the Clara White Mission to provide our employees the opportunity to purchase homemade meals at a convenient location,” said JTA Chief Executive Officer Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. “This ceremony marks the beginning of a partnership that will also benefit individuals with on-the-job training.”
Since 2003, Clara White has provided state-licensed training in Culinary Arts and licensed by the Department of Education. To date, more than 900 persons have graduated and 70 percent remain employed.
“Clara White multi-faceted services are designed to transition our students and graduates into independence in a service learning environment,” said Ju’Coby Pittman, CEO/president of the Clara White Mission. “Our seamless continuum will generate qualified employees for Jacksonville’s workforce in the hospitality industry. This initiative with JTA will allow real people, with real issues an opportunity to begin experiencing the quality of life of a new chance, a new choice and hope.”
The Clara White Mission was founded by Dr. Eartha M. M. White, whose compassion for humanity moved her to action. The Mission has existed for more than 100 years, dedicated to serving the needs of the less fortunate in our community. The Clara White Mission has made tremendous strides over the years in restoring the lives of hundreds of low-income and previous homeless individuals by tapping into their enormous talents.
