What's Happening in Gastonia, NC…

Smith’s Soul Food Bistro will be opening later this month in Gastonia serving classic Southern comfort food.

To be in what was once the El Fogon and Munchies sandwich shop, a Dominican diner, and next door to Legacy Events Center, the Bistro will also be starting a vocational program in February. The program will last six months and will be called “Champions Life Skills and Career Academy,” or Champs.

Cheryl Littlejohn, owner of the restaurant, said that this will not only give her another chance to establish her business but also enable her to give back to the community. She added that the program will be designed for those looking for a chance to start new, including the homeless and others, and provide them with soft skills and a trade so that they can be a part of the community once again and have a chance at success. Such endeavors often turn to brochure printing for providing more details about such programs and their offerings.

ServSafe certified chefs will teach the basics of food safety and cooking food, as well as the essentials of the hospitality business and other skills. Those who participate in Champs will also have the opportunity to work at restaurants and in the hospitality industry. Participants will be afforded assistance with rental, housing, and utilities through a partnership with the Gaston County Salvation Army.