Who We Are
Leslie Abbey
Leslie Abbey, Esq. is an organizational leader and entrepreneur who has committed her career to supporting at-risk youth and families, social justice, and data-driven strategies to improve social service outcomes. Leslie is currently CEO of Hot Bread Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that creates economic opportunity through culinary skills training and career placement, food entrepreneurship programs, and an ecosystem of support, utilizing the vibrant New York City food industry as a catalyst for change. Prior to joining Hot Bread Kitchen, Leslie was Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Covenant House New York, the City’s largest organization dedicated to serving homeless youth. From 2014 to 2017, Leslie was Interim Executive Director and Chief Program Officer at Lantern Community Services, a leading nonprofit provider of supportive housing in New York City, and the largest operator of such services for youth leaving foster care. Leslie started her career advocating for youth as an attorney in the Legal Aid Society’s Juvenile Rights Practice, where she first represented children and youth in Bronx Family Court.