D.C. faces some of the highest levels of food insecurity in the nation. In fact, it’s estimated that one in three residents struggle to find food. We chatted with Melissa Gold from DC Central Kitchen about how the organization fights food insecurity in the District.
DC Central Kitchen serves meals at the opening of DC's first LGBTQ+ homeless shelter. (Melissa Gold/ DC Central Kitchen)
Why is DC Central Kitchen's work so important?
“DC Central Kitchen provides culinary job training for those facing high barriers to employment while creating living wage jobs. We’ve empowered 2,000 individuals with histories of incarceration, addiction, homelessness, and trauma to embark on new jobs in the culinary arts. We also provide farm-fresh meals to 18 schools in D.C. and over 100 community partners, as well as bring produce to corner stores in food apartheid areas.”
How can I volunteer at DC Central Kitchen?
“Our volunteers work with our culinary staff and students to prep fresh produce that will be transformed into nutritious meals for our community. We suspended this program during the pandemic, but plan to resume it this fall. In the meantime, Washingtonians can help us glean and harvest local crops! Learn about our gleaning program and how to sign up.”
I’m unable to volunteer, how else can I help?
“You can support us by donating or by visiting our cafes – THEARC campus or Marianne’s at the MLK Memorial Library. These cafes support local farmers and provide employment for our alumni. Also, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on socials @dccentralkitchen.”
