Brazil expands free bakery training and family assistance programs

The municipality of Araucária in Brazil is offering a free night‑time course in basic bakery and confectionery at the Panificadora Escola, in partnership with Senai. The program teaches participants all stages of bread and cake production, food‑safety practices, cost calculation and pricing, aiming to give vulnerable families the skills to start small businesses or improve employability. One participant, Sharlene Aparecida Wonsowis, says the training has already enabled her to sell baked goods in her condominium.

Separately, the APAE organization is providing socio‑assistential follow‑up to families under its "Fortalecimento de Vínculos" project, funded by a 2025 parliamentary amendment of R$100,000. Services include individualized assistance, home visits, and coordination with health, education and social‑assistance agencies to strengthen family bonds and ensure access to rights. A related psych‑social initiative, also funded by a parliamentary amendment, focuses on inclusion and support for children and adolescents.