Guy Fieri Served Over 1,000 Free Meals to First Responders Because They’re ‘Warriors’
The COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly difficult for many people, but it’s also brought a lot of people together to help others. First responders have been working around the clock to keep everyone safe, and their efforts have been greatly appreciated. The outpouring of love for these critical heroes has been evident across the country, from signs on doorsteps to hearts in windows.
One genuinely kind and amazing celebrity chef has worked diligently to make sure these first responders understand how grateful we are for their unwavering service. Guy Fieri recently took his mobile restaurant on the road to prepare special meals for these hard workers, gathering volunteers and helping hands along the way.
Who is Guy Fieri?
Guy Fieri is a world-renowned chef, as well as a restaurateur, author, and television host. He has had a passion for food for his entire life. When he was 10 years old, he and his dad built a bicycle cart. Fieri sold soft pretzels from “The Awesome Pretzel Cart”, and saved his money. As he got older, he worked as a dishwasher, and eventually had enough money to study the culinary arts in France.
Fieri learned a lot about international cuisine during his time abroad, and his culinary skills grew exponentially. When he returned to the United States, he pursued a hospitality degree at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. The talented chef worked in the restaurant business during his time in college, learning valuable skills in managerial positions.
In 1996, Fieri and Steve Gruber opened their first restaurant, an Italian eatery called Johnny Garlic’s. In 2003, the partners opened another restaurant–Tex Wasabi’s. This time Fieri and Gruber focused on a unique menu featuring fare with a southern barbecue and California-style sushi fusion.
He entered the Food Network scene in 2006 when he won the Next Food Network Star. He then launched his first series, Guy’s Big Bite. Fieri went on to create numerous series on Food Network, including Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and Guy’s Grocery Games.
In 2019, Fieri became the third chef ever to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. There aren’t many chefs with stars, and Fieri joins culinary legends Wolfgang Puck and Bobby Flay.
Why did he give out free meals?
In May, according to Delish, Guy Fieri hopped in his Stagecoach Smokehouse mobile kitchen and drove over to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital, and Kaiser Permanente Medical Center.
He and local volunteers prepared over 1,200 meals to serve to first responders who were working tirelessly to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The crews served delicious meals of pulled pork, pasta and veggies, salads, and focaccia with caramelized onions and Parmesan. Guy Fieri signed each package with an inspirational message of gratitude, recognizing the first responders as “warriors.”
The incredible first responders not only got a fantastic meal prepared by a renowned chef, but they also got a special keepsake reminding them that they are truly appreciated.
What charitable organizations is he involved in?
Of course, this wasn’t the only time the kind-hearted chef has gone above and beyond to help others, per CBS News. He worked with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to start the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund. Together, they have raised over $20 million to help restaurant workers who have lost their jobs or some of their income due to the pandemic restrictions.
In the first month, the foundation approved 40,000 grants. Fieri reached out to big brands like Pepsi, Coke, and Uber Eats to help with the cause. Numerous other celebrities and corporations became involved in the project, including TikTok, Food Network, and Netflix.
