Do Chefs Get Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom? Well, Jose Andres Did!
José Andrés, most known by Walt Disney World fans for his Disney Springs restaurant Jaleo, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Chef Jose Andres does more than cook. We enjoy his Disney Springs Jaleo by Jose Andres Disney Springs restaurant (as well as several others worldwide). Chef Jose Andres brings Spanish food to life. However, he also functions as a great humanitarian.
José Andrés recently earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his work with his organization, World Central Kitchen (WCK). President Joe Biden presented the award at a White House ceremony on Jan. 4. This award celebrates Chef Jose Andrés’ work providing food relief to communities affected by disasters worldwide.
World Central Kitchen
WCK has delivered food to communities ravaged by natural disasters, facing food insecurity, and devastated by military conflict. Chef Jose Andrés created the not-for-profit organization after a 2010 earthquake devastated Haiti. So far, the World Central Kitchen has provided over 450 million meals to those affected by tragedies.
Why Jose Andres Earned Presidential Medal of Freedom
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chef Jose Andrés converted many of his restaurants in hard-hit areas into soup kitchens. He has continued to lead the WCK in helping those facing food insecurity for whatever reasons.
World Central Kitchen teams currently work in Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, Spain, Mayotte, and North Carolina. WCK, led by Chef Jose Andres, believes food offers physical nourishment, comfort, and hope during times of crisis. It also strives to listen to and learn from the communities it helps.
Words of President Joe Biden Awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom
“You answered the call to serve and led others to do the same thing,” President Biden said, addressing the award recipients during the ceremony. “You leave an incredible mark on our country, of insight and influence that can be felt around the globe—in major cities and remote areas alike—binding us closer as people and showing us what’s possible as a nation.”
“José nourishes not only bodies but hearts, in his humanitarian endeavors. His impact on the world will resonate for generations”, WCK CEO Erin Gore said. “This honor reflects his extraordinary global contributions and the deep humanity that defines him. He inspires us all.”
Chef Jose Andres joins a distinguished group as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Chef Jose Andres and the World Central Kitchen will continue to help those in need.
For more information about how to help the World Central Kitchen, please visit wck.org. Also, please visit the Jaleo by Jose Andres website for more details on the Disney Springs location and other dining options operated by Chef Jose Andres. For more theme park-related news, please visit MSM News.
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