PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Portsmouth-based nonprofit organization Marcy Chefs It is reviewing its security protocols following the death of a World Central Kitchen worker in Gaza.
Seven aid workers were killed while delivering food to Palestinians.
Gary LeBlanc, founder of Mercy Chefs, said he was grieving with the families of those who lost their lives. He said they had been on the World Central Kitchen site before. He said the safety of employees and volunteers is the top priority.
“We believe that great things can happen when we eat together, and we know that it is necessary in situations of loss, conflict, suffering and hunger.”LeBlanc he said. “[That] That is what is required of us. ”
LeBlanc said losing an employee is unimaginable for the organization.
He said the killing of seven World Central Kitchen relief workers is forcing the organization to go back and review its procedures and consider how to protect its employees and volunteers overseas. Ta.
“Taking care of our own people should be at the forefront of everyone's mind,” LeBlanc said. “But if you're working in a combat zone or conflict, it's inherently dangerous to be there.”
Marcy Chefs People I work with have been injured on the job. LeBlanc said he is taking every precaution possible to avoid harm to the public.
“It's devastating for the team,” LeBlanc said. “It creates pause, it creates great safety concerns, but in a way it motivates you to keep walking.”
Marcy Chefs He went to Israel at the beginning of the war and set up a kitchen there to serve the people. He also hired several full-time chefs and trained employees and volunteers how to cook large meals.
LeBlanc said there is currently no opportunity to safely serve in Gaza, but if a safe opportunity to serve presents itself, he will be the first to intervene.
“Innocent people should never go hungry or face starvation,” LeBlanc said. “There are innocent people in Israel and in Gaza. We will do everything we can to reach them.” I'm going to do something.”
LeBlanc said when providing a service you always want to go to the center of need, but in many cases that can be dangerous.
He said it takes really special and dedicated people to run their businesses, and many of them feel they have to go wherever that is.
Click for more information on current missions. here.
