Health and Hope: Help Keep Woodlawn's Food Revolution Going

As a recipient of the 2019 Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Grant, sponsored by the Mayor's office, Shakespear Rose is committed to making a positive impact on the community. But Chef Bernita's vision goes beyond just providing delicious food - she's determined to improve the health and well-being of her neighbors.

Growing up on the West Side, Chef Bernita later moved to Woodlawn in 2014, where she noticed the lack of fresh, high-quality food options in her new community. With fast and processed foods dominating the landscape, she knew she wanted to bring a healthier alternative to the table. Today, she brings that vision to life by serving globally inspired food, made with locally sourced ingredients (when possible) via cooking classes and catering.Chef Bernita's passion doesn't stop there. She's dedicated to:

Teaching healthy eating habits to her community through cooking classes and workshops.

Empowering future chefs by providing a shared kitchen space for them to learn and master their skills.

Creating a culinary hub that fosters community growth and career development.

Food is more than just a sustenance. It is a bridge that connects us, nourishes us, and brings us joy. In the Woodlawn community our neighborhoods are inundated with fast food restaurants. When I created Shakespear Rose Culinary Kitchen, I envisioned my space becoming a vibrant hub where neighbors gather to explore new flavors, cooking techniques, where families prepare meals together, and where the simple act of sharing food becomes a catalyst for positive change.

We would love to continue serving our community. However, without your support we can not continue to do what we love to do.