HMSHost Foundation has joined the recovery efforts led by World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization founded by Washington-based chef José Andrés, with funds to provide cooked meals to aid those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. HMSHost Corporation employs approximately 500 people in the Houston area at George Bush Intercontinental and Houston Hobby International airports. In continued hurricane relief efforts, HMSHost Foundation has contributed $50,000 to various Houston-based charities.

“The determination of Chef Andrés and the entire World Central Kitchen team in response to the recent natural disasters is absolutely inspiring. HMSHost Foundation is proud to support this group and its efforts in Houston, a city so important to our HMSHost community,” said HMSHost Foundation Director Laura Sildon.

As the news of Hurricane Harvey’s devastation began to surface, World Central Kitchen was quick to mobilize a group of chefs to Houston to cook thousands of meals for residents displaced by the detrimental storms and flooding. The organization’s expansive network of partners on the ground made this entire operation possible. This included chefs from all over the nation who volunteered, including
HMSHost Corporation’s chef partner Bryan Caswell of Reef Restaurant Group.

José Andrés and World Central Kitchen did not stop after Houston. When Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, the organization again mobilized to respond to the disastrous conditions that left many citizens without reliable sources of food. Andrés and his team set up kitchens and supply networks that contributed to over 2.7 million meals being served with plans to continue through December.

“We are so thankful for all our partners who have donated to support World Central Kitchen’s relief efforts,” commented Andrés. “We are very happy with what we have accomplished in these areas that have been hit hard by devastating hurricanes. After serving more than 2.7 million meals in Puerto Rico, #ChefsforPuertoRico will continue meeting the needs of the American citizens who need the most help in Puerto Rico through Christmas,” continued Andrés.

In total, 19 airport communities in which HMSHost Corporation operates were impacted in some way as a result of the 2017 hurricane season. HMSHost Foundation is committed to consistently addressing causes of poverty in these local communities. In addition to HMSHost Foundation’s mission to utilize food and shelter to HMSHost Foundation Director Laura Sildon, HMSHost Foundation Secretary and Treasurer Stephanie Havard, and HMSHost Foundation President Paul Mamalian, meet with Chef José Andrés. 

HMSHost Corporation is also facilitating assistance to the company’s affected associates, through its new HMSHost Cares program. HMSHost Cares provides a platform for associates to help fellow associates by donating funds alongside the company’s contributions.