Following last month’s deadly midair collision near Reagan National Airport, many first responders are still processing the tragedy. To support them, D.C.-based nonprofit Food on the Stove is hosting Food for Thought, a free event offering meals, mental health resources, and community support.
Set for Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Capital Turnaround, the event provides a space for first responders to connect over food without pressure to share their experiences. “We want them to know they’re not alone,” said Jonathan Tate, a D.C. firefighter, EMT, and the nonprofit’s founder. “We’re serving those who serve us.”
Food on the Stove supports first responders year-round, providing nutritious meals through initiatives like Farm to Firehouse, which delivers fresh meal kits to local fire stations. Many assume firehouse meals are funded by tax dollars, but firefighters pay for their own food, often opting for the cheapest options.
Tate, whose late father was a D.C. firefighter, founded the nonprofit after recognizing how poor nutrition affects first responders’ health. Since then, they’ve provided over 80,000 meals to firefighters across the region.
Right now, food donations are the greatest need. To help, visit foodonthestove.org.
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Photo: Getty