OUR STORY
Cook + Connect began in 2017 with a simple idea - that cooking together can build confidence, independence, and friendship.
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It all started when a group of parents of young people with NDIS plans were searching for a way to help their children learn to cook. At the same time, Blue Mountains Food Services was running small cooking sessions for older clients. Seeing the opportunity to make a difference, the team opened the kitchen to NDIS participants and Cook + Connect was born.
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Soon after came @Home, supporting people to cook in their own kitchens, and @Work, a social enterprise café launched later that year to help participants learn real-world hospitality and employment skills.
What began with just one small group has grown into a thriving community, now supporting more than 65 active participants and over 275 people since it began.
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Led by our dedicated team of instructors, Cook + Connect continues to be about more than just food. It’s about connection, belonging, and the joy that comes from learning and sharing together.
We had our first session today with Lesley. It was a brilliant success. Lesley was amazing and Cait really enjoyed it. Thanks for organising it.
Barbara really loves coming to the Cook+Connect group and that she is really excited to be learning to cook from someone who is a chef.
Nicole is really enjoying the @Home program and working with the facilitator in her own kitchen