Culinary Graduate Eric Thomas Featured in The NYCHA Journal for Black Business Month

We are proud to recognize Eric Thomas, graduate of Allie’s Place Center for Culinary Education & Employment, for being featured in The NYCHA Journal’s Black Business Month spotlight.

Before enrolling at Allie’s Place Center for Culinary Education & Employment, Eric completed NYCHA’s 10-week Food Business Pathways program. At the time, he was unemployed and referred to the Culinary Center through NYCHA-REES. Eric quickly distinguished himself as a dedicated student, completing Culinary Essentials, Pastry Arts, Hospitality, and numerous workshops—including Caribbean Baking—in early 2025. He went on to further his education through Ancient Song Doula Services and the SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center before launching his own business, Chef Doula LLC, in March 2025. Chef Doula LLC specializes in private chef services and nutritional education for pregnant women and their families, offering in-home meal prep, full-spectrum doula care, and educational workshops.

Read Eric’s full feature in The NYCHA Journal here.