Student referrals, social services and case management

New Liberty Innovation School, Youth Build North Shore, Children’s Friend and Family Services, New American Association of Massachusetts, The Food Project, Raw Art Works, Lifebridge, North Shore CDC, Justice Resource Institute, Plummer Home, North Shore Community College, LEAP for Education, Salem Public Schools, Catholic Charities North, Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, Department of Transitional Assistance, Salem Academy Charter School, Lahey Health Behavioral Services, Salem State University, Mass Hire North Shore, Open Door Immigration Services, Centerboard, Department of Mental Health Services, Seem Collaborative, Eliot Services, and more!


Externship Partners

These businesses have partnered with us to provide on- the-job training for our young people as part of Root's 12-week program.


Local farms (both for fresh produce and instruction)

Three Sisters Garden Project, Appleton Farms, Green Meadows Farm, Tendercrop Farm, Food Project, Marini Farm


Administrative and Consultation services

Essex County Community Foundation, Wellspring House, LEAP for Education, North Shore Medical Center, Beverly Bootstraps, The Open Door, North Shore United Way, Plummer Youth Promise, Mass in Motion Salem, Community Servings, United Teen Equality Center, My Brother’s Table, Future Chefs, Enterprise Center at Salem State University, The Food Project, Project Bread, Endicott College, North Shore Community College, North Shore Workforce Investment Board, City of Salem, NECAT, Haley House


Root Supporters

“Our kitchen and venue doors will immediately be open for internships and real jobs for the Root students. Real-life, hands-on training is what we will offer, with as much guidance and support as each student deserves. Success will be hard-earned, which will translate into feelings of accomplishment and pride in a job well done. Opportunities and advancement can be vast in this industry, and Vinwood is committed to giving these kids our time and knowledge to soar.”

— Rick Delisle, Owner/Partner, Vinwood Caterers


Root’s mission of transforming the lives of youth from challenged backgrounds has become a reality thanks to the generosity of our many supporters. Numerous individuals and organizations have helped us to build a program focused on changing the narrative for these young people by teaching them work and life skills through food service and life skills training. 

Visit us today to see how you can support Root’s mission and work.