James Johnson

I’ve recently graduated from Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts with an associate’s degree in culinary arts, and I have a dream of starting my own food truck catering business. Cooking has always been my passion, and nothing makes me happier than seeing people come together and enjoy the food I create. My friends and family always tell me how much they love my food, and I want to share that joy with my community on a bigger scale. Right now, I’m working full time in a kitchen and completing my second externship, but it’s tough to save up enough for a truck, equipment, and all the necessary permits while also supporting my wife and two little ones. Every time I manage to put a little aside, something unexpected comes up, and it feels like I’m always starting over. I’m not looking for a brand new truck—just something reliable that I can turn into a welcoming space for good food and new flavors. That’s why I’m reaching out to food lovers and supporters in my community. I truly believe this could be the way to finally launch my business, bring people together through great food, and create a more stable future for my family. I’ve learned that sometimes all you have to do is ask for help, so I’m humbly asking for your support to help an aspiring chef’s dream come true.