In a commendable effort to combat involuntary hunger, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has successfully provided meals to over 4,000 individuals through its Walang Gutom Kitchen initiative in Pasay City. Launched on December 16, the program has been a beacon of hope for those in street situations and others facing food insecurity.
Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the DSWD announced that from the launch date until December 24, a total of 4,452 people benefited from the initiative. The kitchen, which operates thanks to generous donations from hotels, restaurants, and other establishments, ensures that the meals served are fresh, delicious, and nutritious, dispelling any notions of serving discarded or ‘pagpag’ food.
Dumlao expressed gratitude not only for the food contributions but also for the volunteers who dedicated their time, even during holidays, to serve meals at the Pasay City soup kitchen. The Walang Gutom Kitchen will continue its operations from December 26 to 31, with a temporary closure on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2025.
This initiative, spearheaded by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, is a strategic move to address involuntary hunger while simultaneously reducing food waste by transforming surplus donations into hot, nourishing meals for those in need.