D.C. Central Kitchen celebrates 20th anniversary

D.C. Central Kitchen (DCCK)—which began it first phase of operation on Jan. 20, 1989, by redistributing excess food from balls held for the presidential inauguration of George H. W. Bush—today celebrates its 20th anniversary.

During these past 20 years, DCCK has been combating hunger and creating opportunity by:

• recovering un-served food from restaurants, hotels and foodservice businesses;
• training unemployed men and women for careers in the foodservice industry through its Culinary Job Training program;
• providing free, nutritious meals to shelters and other social service agencies;
• coordinating outreach services to help men and women living on the street find a way inside;
• opening "Campus Kitchens" at universities and high schools across America; and
• offering change through empowerment.

By partnering with local farmers, small businesses and concerned citizens, DCCK now aims to increase its sustainability efforts by generating 50% of its own revenue, while shining a light on new forms of business as philanthropy. At the same time, DCCK will step forward to advocate for an engaged and flexible non-profit sector during this era of rapidly changing demographics and societal issues.

As reported yesterday on National Public Radio's All Things Considered, this year, DCCK's culinary arts students will be cooking for some of the events surrounding the inauguration of President Barack Obama. Click here to listen to the full segment.