Who feeds all the Nationwide Guardsmen in Washington, DC proper now? Chef José Andrés, after all

First, it should be noted that WCK’s unique model pays restaurants to prepare food for people in need.

This was particularly important during the pandemic, when hunger is spreading even faster than it was with COVID-19 and the already fragile restaurant sector is extremely badly hit by shutdowns, curfews and other restrictions.

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“The pandemic hit us down quickly, and this partnership has brought us much-needed income to keep our people busy. There were people who struggled to make ends meet. To know that people are getting free meals, that’s really huge. ”

Charles, Blueprint Cafe
Newark, NJ pic.twitter.com/sGjfFEJF5F

– World Central Kitchen (@WCKitchen) January 15, 2021

It’s a pretty smart approach, and some pretty important people have noticed.

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The crisis is worse than ever, but we have a major win-win situation ahead of us. Cities and states work with the government to keep restaurants working and feeding the people. We bring back jobs, buy from farmers, support local producers … strengthen the organization that understands the need.

– Please wear a mask! Please do it for the world … (@chefjoseandres) January 15, 2021

Prior to Biden’s inauguration, Chef Andrés took a drive around Washington, DC to see the ramifications of WCK’s newest mission: to feed the soldiers to make sure the ceremony we are all waiting for doesn’t lead to yet another live-streamed Shitshow will.

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Hello everyone … just delivered hot stews to some of the National Guards and others that rainy night in DC. I know the guard is very concerned … but our town and many restaurants make sure everyone is catered for! A guardsman had a message to share … pic.twitter.com/IeZcFcoywD

– Please wear a mask! Please do it for the world … (@chefjoseandres) January 16, 2021

Again, note that WCK helps both soldiers and restaurants. And if Chef Andrés’ Twitter feed is any clue, they’ll be feeding quality meals to soldiers all week long.

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Sandwiches and hot meals are being prepared for our National Guard and other DC first responders this morning! On the menu: roast beef, sun-dried tomatoes with basil aioli on ciabatta 🥪 and braised vegetable stew with cannelloni beans plus (plus a version with chicken!) #ChefsForDC pic.twitter.com/q3CPaMLa0p

– World Central Kitchen (@WCKitchen) January 16, 2021

It is no small matter. At this point in time 25,000 National Guardsmen are stationed in the district.

As Andrés notes in this video, his Jaleo tapas restaurants, which like other DC companies, are not allowed to open for security reasons. It is the WCK headquarters as Jaleo and many other district corporations are instead focusing on this important effort.

Even Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, did the good deeds on Saturday.

That’s patriotism.