LISBON FALLS – Nonprofit, volunteer-run groups that prepare food to be served or sold to the public must be sure that the food is prepared and served safely.

To help organizations provide safe food, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension is offering a workshop, “Cooking for Crowds: A Volunteer’s Food Safety Training.”

Participants in the five-hour workshop will learn up-to-date methods for safely handling and preparing food for large groups. The workshop is appropriate for nonprofit food providers such as churches, fraternal organizations and civic groups. It is free and participants will receive a “Cooking for Crowds” food safety manual, certificate of attendance, instant read thermometer and posters.

“Cooking for Crowds” will be offered this spring at the following locations:

April 10, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Androscoggin/Sagadahoc County Extension office, 24 Main St., Lisbon Falls. Persons interested in attending are asked to register before April 3 by calling Lois at 1-800-287-1471.

April 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the South Portland Recreation Center at 21 Nelson St. Persons interested in attending are asked to register before April 6 by calling Lois at 1-800-287-1471.

The workshop will be presented using a variety of lecture, discussion and activities on food safety topics.