Bloomberg reports that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are turning their attention to food systems via their new non-profit Archewell Foundation.
They have started working with José Andrés and World Central Kitchen, which feeds people in disaster-stricken areas around the world.
The couple is backing a series of Community Relief Centres. These will be permanent structures built to act as quickly-activated service kitchens during emergencies like natural disasters, which can then be converted into community centres, schools and clinics. The team sees the integrated approach as a way to promote more resilient local food systems.
“The health of our communities depends on our ability to connect to our shared humanity,” said Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in an emailed statement.
“When we think about Chef Andrés and his incredible team at World Central Kitchen, we’re reminded that even during a year of unimaginable hardship, there are so many amazing people willing — and working tirelessly — to support each other. World Central Kitchen inspires us through compassion in action.”
The first of the four centers is being built on the Caribbean island of Dominica, which was hard hit by Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017. It’s slated to open in early 2021. The second will be set in Puerto Rico; the other two locations have not been announced.
Further reading:
- Study finds over two thirds of food systems leaders are men
- $10 billion food system commitment from Biden
- Jeffrey Sachs to UN: food system based on extreme irresponsibility
