Episode 170: Food as a Liberating Tool for Communities
About the Podcast
Today, Clancy speaks with Mike Curtin, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of DC Central Kitchen, the country’s first community kitchen. In this episode, Clancy and Mike discussed food as a liberating tool to strengthen communities.
About Mike Curtin, Jr.
Mike Curtin joined DC Central Kitchen in 2004, taking over as Chief Executive officer of the country's first community kitchen from founder Robert Egger in 2007. He has a 20-year career in the hospitality sector that included owning and operating his restaurant.
Discussion Takeaways
- DC Central Kitchen is an organization that aims to lead traditional activities within the social service sector, particularly in the fight against hunger.
- Food will not solve hunger. Food is a means, not an end. It should be used as a liberating tool to strengthen bodies, empower minds, and build communities.
- Charitable works are often done with good intentions, but the focus has shifted from the liberation of the receiver to the redemption of the giver.
- It is okay to use food as a way to attract people towards better opportunities and a better life.
- Food Dignity means equity. Regardless of someone's resources, their meal should be dignified and prepared with love.
#1 tip to improve access to healthy food
Food brings us all together. Everyone has a food story, and if we're thoughtful, it can create community, bridge divides, and open doors to new opportunities and possibilities.
Each week on the Food Dignity® Podcast, the Food Dignity® Movement's Clancy Harrison hosts a wide variety of hunger experts and other people making changes on the frontlines. Join us as we dive deep into conversations that will change the way you think about food insecurity.
Listen to our trailer!
Want to learn more about how we might work together?
Fight hidden hunger by becoming a
Food Dignity® Champion and take the HIDDEN HUNGER PLEDGE >
