Chef’s crisis sparks community care

Giving Kitchen, the award-winning no Giving Kitchen, the award-winning non-profit organization that provides emergency assistance to food service workers, has a remarkable journey rooted in community support and resilience. Founded in 2013 in response to Chef Ryan Hidinger’s stage-four cancer diagnosis, Giving Kitchen has since expanded its reach beyond Atlanta, now serving Tennessee food service workers since 2021.The organization’s genesis lies in the overwhelming response to Chef Hidinger’s diagnosis. Friends within the restaurant industry, and subsequently, the broader Atlanta community, rallied behind him with love and financial support, providing a lifeline during a challenging time. According to Jen Hidinger, Ryan’s wife, this outpouring of support extended Ryan’s life by at least six months, underscoring the power of community in times of crisis.Today, Giving Kitchen continues its mission with steadfast dedication, supported by the leadership of the Hidinger family, donors, partners, staff, and board. The organization’s impact is tangible, having supported thousands of food service workers in crisis over the years. With operations now extending into Tennessee, Giving Kitchen’s influence continues to grow, offering vital assistance to those in need.As part of their fundraising efforts, Giving Kitchen is hosting the second-annual Nashville tasting event fundraiser, Tennessee Tasting, on Sunday, April 28,...