Everything DC Central Kitchen does to fight hunger and poverty in our community is made possible through the power of partnership. This month, we are celebrating the transformational partnership of Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) and MSE Foundation, long-time DC Central Kitchen supporters that embodies what it means to think deeply and creatively about community impact.
Our partnership goes back well over a decade and has become a national model for how leaders in the sports and entertainment world can intentionally partner with community-based organizations. From featuring our training opportunities and healthy cafes before massive crowds to hosting our Culinary Job Training students for thrilling Washington Wizards games to engaging team photographers to take professional headshots of our students as they hit the job market, MSE has always thoughtfully used its platform for good. That was especially true in 2020 when the city needed us most and many events were shuttered, as we teamed up to provide nutritious meals to healthcare workers and other front-line, essential personnel during the depths of the pandemic.
Last month, when we opened the doors of our new facility, The Michael R. Klein Center for Jobs & Justice, we dove right into expanding our impact with the support of MSE. When the legendary Bruce Springsteen invited us to receive donations from his fans during his sell-out concert at Capital One Arena in late March, MSE made a major gift honoring each ticket sold. Thanks to the combined generosity of MSE, Bruce Springsteen, and his incredible fans, we raised more than $50,000 in a single night for our essential programs at a time of rising food costs and widespread food insecurity.
Days later, DC Central Kitchen was recognized at half-court during the Washington Wizards’ Fan Appreciation Night, shining a light on our efforts to provide nutritious meals to children. And to help us do just that all summer long, Wizards superstar Bradley Beal presented us with a stunning donation of $96,000 just before tip-off – a critical gift that will allow us to serve scratch-cooked meals to thousands of children this summer.
It’s no secret that the sports and entertainment world has had a long road during and through the pandemic, but thanks to the steadfast support of MSE and the incredible fans of Washington, DC this partnership is serving more members of our community than ever before. Thank you!