In her most challenging times, Rose asked for help not once, but twice—a decision that gave her the space to heal and the strength to keep moving forward. Through financial assistance, Stability Network resources, and a lifesaving Clinic Comps referral to in-kind dental services, Giving Kitchen provided Rose with the kind of support that helped her gain stability.
There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked bread, the sight of intricately baked pastries, and the feeling of hope a simple sweet treat can bring. For Rose, the heart behind Hi Honey Bakery, her time in the food service industry has always been about creating connection and spreading love—even when life seemed to pull her far from it.
Rose grew up in the industry, watching her mother work as a server with determination and grace. It wasn’t just a job for her; it was a way of life. When her mother passed away from cancer, Rose found herself at an emotional crossroads. In one of her darkest moments, the food service industry gave her something she didn’t expect—empathy. “I was at my lowest low, feeling invisible, like I didn’t exist anymore,” Rose shared. But then she sat down for lunch one day, and a server treated her like a person again—really saw her. That moment was transformative. She realized the power of hospitality and the impact it could have on someone’s life. From that spark, Rose created Hi Honey Bakery, a place built on the belief that food can spread positivity every moment of every day through their motto: “Baked with Intention, Seasoned with Love ❤️”
Rose’s dedication to her craft and her community has remained unwavering, even as she has faced challenges that could have stopped her in her tracks. A brutal car accident left her physically broken—with injuries to her back, knee, and arm—and financially stranded after her vehicle was totaled and unable to continue her work as a delivery driver. To make matters even harder, Rose had lost her previous corporate job after transitioning—leaving her without a safety net or family to lean on after she had a full career laid out in front of her. But Rose is a fighter. She doesn’t give up, even when the odds are stacked against her.
That resilience—combined with the compassionate support of Giving Kitchen—gave Rose the chance to heal. When the accident left her unable to work and struggling to make ends meet, Giving Kitchen stepped in to help cover her housing and utilities so she could take the time she desperately needed to recover. “Having no parents and no family, I was truly alone until Giving Kitchen stepped in,” she shared.
A year after the accident, Rose learned that the impact from the car accident had shattered her wisdom teeth—and the resulting infection was threatening her health. It was a life-or-death situation, and she needed dental surgery, fast. This is where Giving Kitchen’s Clinic Comps program became her saving grace.
Clinic Comps connects food service workers like Rose to trusted providers who offer free initial appointments for urgent needs. Through this program, Rose not only found the referral she needed, but her entire surgery was covered—allowing her to focus on recovery and reclaim her health. “They worked tremendously fast,” Rose shared. “It’s not something I expected, but it saved my life. I’m so grateful. From the moment I applied, I felt welcomed. It never felt like asking for help; it felt like receiving empathy.”
Today, Rose continues to pour her heart into Hi Honey Bakery, spreading kindness one baked good at a time. She credits Giving Kitchen with helping her stay afloat—and alive—when times got rough. “I don’t think I’d still be here thriving if it wasn’t for them,” she reflects, her gratitude shining brighter than ever.
Rose’s story reminds us that the food service industry isn’t about plates or pastries; it’s about people. It’s about resilience in the face of hardship and the incredible power of a helping hand when you need it most. Programs like Clinic Comps show how Giving Kitchen is meeting crises with compassion and care, reminding food service workers that they’re never alone—even in life’s darkest moments.
Here’s to Rose—the baker, the dreamer, the survivor—and to all food service workers like her who keep showing up, despite the challenges. If you or someone you know is a food service worker facing a crisis, Giving Kitchen is here to help. From financial assistance to healthcare referrals through Clinic Comps, we’ll meet you where you are—and support you as you rise again.
Because sometimes, we all need a little help to keep baking hope.
Get Your Care Comped
Giving Kitchen’s Clinic Comps program provides direct referrals to trusted providers who offer free appointments to food service workers. Each comp is good for one initial consultation or appointment per provider.
As a food service worker, you will be able to schedule an appointment at the clinic that is most convenient for you and your needs.
Connect with a Case Manager