Gaining Confidence Through Food and Skills

One person came to Myrtle House feeling unsure about food — not because they didn’t want to cook, but because they didn’t know what to do with what they had.

Food parcels helped meet immediate need, but deciding how to turn unfamiliar ingredients into meals felt stressful and overwhelming. This uncertainty often added to existing pressures around health, energy, and confidence.

Through a series of small, practical cooking sessions, they were able to watch simple meals being made using everyday foodbank items. Tasting food, asking questions, and taking recipes home helped make cooking feel more achievable.

Over time, their confidence began to grow. Learning new ways to use ingredients they already had reduced stress and made mealtimes feel more manageable. Trying lentils, vegetables, and low-cost meals felt less intimidating, and cooking started to feel possible rather than overwhelming.

This story reflects how practical, hands-on support can build confidence and reduce pressure — helping people feel more capable in their own kitchens and daily lives.