Culinary Therapy

A guided, hands-on culinary experience designed to bring people together through shared food preparation. Programs support connection, confidence, and meaningful engagement, whether the goal is team development, recreation, or simply a shared experience.

Participants work side by side to learn traditional skills such as sourdough breadmaking or fresh cheese or butter in a calm, structured environment. Each person plays a role, encouraging cooperation, conversation, and shared accomplishment.

Program formats are fully customizable and may include:

  • Sourdough breadmaking
  • Sourdough pizza with sauce and fresh mozzarella preparation
  • Bagel making with cream cheese preparation
  • Cultured butter making
  • Artisan bread workshops
  • Sourdough starter creation and naming

Organizations may also choose to create and name a shared starter, which participants care for over a 14-day period before dividing it to continue independently. These traditional processes provide meaningful structure, encourage cooperation, and create lasting connection through shared accomplishment.

For organizations, Culinary Therapy strengthens communication, trust, and workplace culture. For veterans, rehabilitation, and community groups, it offers a restorative, engaging activity that builds confidence and connection through hands-on participation.

Programs are delivered at the County Food Hub in Picton or at an approved kitchen arranged by the participating organization. Travel throughout Ontario, including Kingston and Toronto, is available.

Minimum group size: 6 participants

Program formats (fully customizable):
Half-Day Experience: a focused, hands-on session designed to build connection and shared accomplishment.
Full-Day Experience: an immersive program (often morning + afternoon) designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and team cohesion
Organizational Series: multi-session programming (combination of virtual and in-person) that supports lasting workplace culture and continued skill developement.

Pricing: Provided by quote based on group size, location, kitchen access, and program design

To inquire or book:
hello@greatlakessourdough.com

What You'll Learn

In this Culinary Therapy™ Half-Day Experience, participants will learn:

• Traditional culinary techniques such as sourdough breadmaking or fresh cheese preparation

• The foundational stages of preparation, from initial setup through to completion

• How to work confidently with ingredients, tools, and timing

• Practical methods for mixing, handling, shaping, and preparing food correctly

• How shared culinary work supports communication, cooperation, and group engagement

• How to continue the practice beyond the session, either at home or within their organization

By the end of the experience, participants will have a clear understanding of the process, the confidence to continue, and the shared accomplishment of having created something meaningful together.

What’s Included

All ingredients, equipment, and guided instruction are provided. Participants leave with the food they prepare and the skills to continue the practice at home or within their organization.



What To Bring

Nothing required. All ingredients, tools, and equipment are provided. Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for kitchen work.

Location

📍County Food Hub in Picton or at an approved kitchen arranged by the participating organization. Travel throughout Ontario, including Kingston and Toronto, is available.

Class Size

6–12 participants per session. This size supports meaningful participation, collaboration, and individual engagement.

Get Information About Culinary Therapy™

Share a few details and we’ll reply with availability, format options, and next steps.

Prefer email? hello@greatlakessourdough.com