The kitchen is a shared space meant for nourishment, fellowship, and learning life skills. To maintain a safe, clean, and respectful environment, all residents are expected to follow the guidelines below.

1. Cleanliness & Responsibility

• Clean up after yourself immediately. This includes washing dishes, wiping counters, and putting away all items used.
• No dirty dishes may be left in the sink. If you use it, you clean it.
• Trash must be bagged and taken out when full. Do not leave overflowing garbage.
• Spills should be cleaned up immediately—on counters, floors, stoves, or in the fridge.

• Each resident is responsible for contributing to general kitchen cleanliness.

2. Food Storage

• Label all personal food items with your name and date.
• Do not consume items that do not belong to you unless shared or approved.
• Expired or spoiled food must be discarded promptly.
• Storage space in refrigerators and pantries is limited. Please be mindful of others.

3. Cooking & Meal Prep

• Residents may prepare food during designated kitchen hours or with staff permission.
• Always remain in the kitchen while cooking—never leave food unattended on the stove or in the oven.
• Use appliances and utensils only as intended. Report any broken or malfunctioning equipment to staff immediately.

• Be respectful of others’ time and space—don’t monopolize the kitchen during busy periods.

4. Meal Times & Group Meals

• Participation in group meals or chores may be required. Residents are expected to help with setup and cleanup when assigned.

• During staff-led or community meals, the kitchen may be temporarily reserved and unavailable for personal use.

5. Safety & Hygiene

• Wash your hands before handling food.
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and vegetables.
• Hair should be tied back, and appropriate clothing worn while cooking.

• No shirtless or barefoot cooking is allowed.

6. Kitchen Hours

• The kitchen is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM unless otherwise posted by staff.
• No cooking, loud noise, or activity in the kitchen during quiet hours.

• Microwaves will be available at all times.

7. Prohibited Activities

• No horseplay, loitering, or socializing that disrupts meal prep or cleaning.

8. Staff Authority

• Staff has the authority to set meal schedules, assign duties, restrict access, or revoke privileges based on behavior or violations of policy.

Certification of Policy Acknowledgment and Agreement

By typing my full name below, I acknowledge that I have read and understood this policy and agree to abide by its terms and restrictions.