The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has announced that its Walang Gutom Kitchen will continue to serve meals during the holiday season, with the exception of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Launched on December 15, 2024, this initiative aims to combat involuntary hunger and minimize food waste by transforming surplus food donations from hotels, restaurants, and organizations into nutritious meals.
Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, who also serves as the DSWD spokesperson, confirmed that the kitchen will be operational on December 24, 30, and 31, as well as from December 26 to 29. However, it will be closed on December 25 and January 1 to allow staff to celebrate these major holidays with their families.
The Walang Gutom Kitchen is open to all families and individuals in street situations (FISS) and others facing involuntary hunger. People from various backgrounds found on the streets are brought to the Pag-Abot processing center where they receive initial assistance through this program.
Dumlao emphasized that the meals provided are not ‘pagpag’ or discarded food, but rather fresh, healthy, and delicious dishes, ensuring that those in need receive quality nutrition during the festive season.