José Andrés and World Central Kitchen

In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria in February 2023, renowned chef and philanthropist José Andrés and his non-profit organization, World Central Kitchen (WCK), have been providing millions of meals to those affected by the disaster.

The 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the region on February 6, 2023, causing widespread destruction and displacement. Many people were left without access to food, water, and shelter. Andrés, who founded WCK in 2010 in response to the earthquake in Haiti, quickly mobilized his team to provide relief to those affected by the disaster.

According to WCK, they have served over 3.5 million meals to people in Turkey and Syria since the earthquake hit. Andrés, who is currently in Ukraine where WCK is also providing meals to those affected by the ongoing conflict, has been tweeting about his organization's work in Turkey and Syria.

WCK has been working with local chefs and partners in southern Turkey and northern Syria to provide hot meals to those in need. Some of the dishes served include hamburgers and local favorites like lentil soup, which is a popular dish in the region.

In addition to providing meals, WCK has also been working to help rebuild the local food economy in the affected areas. They have been purchasing ingredients from local farmers and food producers, helping to support the local economy and create jobs.

José Andrés, who is a James Beard Award-winning chef and owner of several popular restaurants, has been a vocal advocate for using food as a means of humanitarian aid. His organization, World Central Kitchen, has responded to numerous disasters around the world, including hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes.

The work of Andrés and WCK in Turkey and Syria is a testament to the power of food in bringing comfort and relief to those affected by disasters. As Andrés himself has said, "Everywhere I go I see the power of humanity helping one another in horrible times... and in Türkiye this was an amazing moment while bringing meals with search & rescue teams that came even from war to help families after the earthquakes!”

Thanks to his tireless efforts and the work of his organization, millions of people in Turkey and Syria have been able to find hope and dignity in the face of tragedy.