May 26, 2020
NoMad Heroes: José Andrés Feeding Those In Need
Celebrity chef José Andrés is almost as well known for his humanitarian efforts and charity work as he is for his culinary prowess.
World Central Kitchen: Doing a World of Good
Andrés and his wife Patricia founded World Central Kitchen (WCK), a charity whose mission is to fight hunger and poverty. WCK was created ten years ago to respond to those in need after the 2010 earthquake that shook Haiti. In 2017, when hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico, WCK helped serve over 4 million meals to those affected.
#ChefsForAmerica: Feeding Those In Need
Now, Andrés and WCK are facing their biggest challenge yet – the COVID-19 crisis. WCK is working tirelessly to meet hunger related challenges exacerbated by COVID-19. In the U.S., its new program, #ChefsForAmerica is distributing individually packaged fresh meals in communities that needs support. It’s active in more than 85 cities across the U.S. As of May 8, the program has served over 6.5 million meals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To help with #ChefsForAmerica’s efforts, donate here.
In a recent “TIME 100 Talks” discussion, Andrés pointed out the humanitarian crisis. More people face hunger, food insecurity, and a lack of access to food banks and grocery stores – the pandemic amplifies these difficulties, to say the least. Food banks are seeing a dramatic rise in those who need their resources, and many are unable to keep up with demand.
Restaurants for the People
Andrés and WCK are adding a program, Restaurants for the People. WCK is committing $50 million to help keep local and independent restaurants open so that they can provide meals for those in need in their communities. The program purchases meals from smaller restaurants, which not only supports the employees of the restaurants, but the farmers, fishers, and ranchers who supply these businesses. The effort is working with 1200 eateries across the United States and has already put over $15 million directly into local eateries. It is active in over 200 cities, including New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, and Miami.
With so much going into these admirable efforts and support, it’s a wonder Andrés has time for his vocation. But when NoMad’s new Ritz-Carlton is up and running, Andrés will be putting his talents behind three restaurants in the hotel. During these challenging times, it’s the promise of things like José Andrés’s new establishments that keeps the neighborhood looking forward and excited about the future of NoMad.
You can be a NoMad Hero, too
There are countless ways to help those who are facing hunger and food insecurity. One sure way is to donate to the efforts of José Andrés and World Center Kitchen.