Jose Andres, founder of World Central Kitchen (WCK), has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, for his extraordinary contributions to humanitarian work and the culinary world. The honor was presented during a ceremony at the White House on January 4, 2025, where President Joe Biden praised Jose’s unwavering commitment to nourishing communities affected by disasters.
“You have answered the call to service and you have led others to do the same,” President Biden told the honorees at the ceremony. “You have left a remarkable mark on our country, bringing us closer together as people and showing us what we are capable of as a nation, with insight and influence that is felt around the world in big cities and remote areas alike. Thank you.”
“In 2010, Jose traveled to Haiti after a devastating earthquake, determined to help. While cooking with displaced families, he crushed and sifted black beans into a creamy sauce. Learned how to cook the Haitian way.For Jose, it wasn’t just about serving food; it was about listening, learning, and cooking with the locals.This approach to food aid is WCK. Since then, we have provided more than 450 million meals to people affected by crises around the world.
“Jose nourishes not only the body but also the soul with his humanitarian work. His impact on the world will resonate for generations,” said WCK CEO Erin Gore. “This honor reflects his extraordinary global contributions and the deep humanity that defined him. He is an inspiration to us all.”
As a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Jose joins a distinguished group whose contributions have deeply impacted society.
WCK teams are currently supporting families affected by conflict and natural disasters on the ground in Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, Spain, Mayotte, and North Carolina.
