Turkey's Culinary Capital Rallies to Feed the Hungry After Earthquakes
In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck
Turkey's western coast in October, chefs in the country's culinary capital of
Gaziantep are stepping up to help those affected by the disaster. The city is
known for its rich culinary traditions and world-famous kebabs, but it is now
using its culinary prowess to feed the hungry.
Over 20,000 people were displaced by the earthquakes, which
hit the provinces of Izmir and Manisa in the Aegean region of Turkey. The
country's government and various aid organizations have been working to provide
assistance to those in need, but local chefs in Gaziantep have also joined the
effort by cooking and distributing food to earthquake victims and first
responders.
Local chef Mithat Erdem is one of the many volunteers who
have been cooking for those affected by the earthquakes. He and his team have
been preparing meals in a large kitchen set up by the city's municipality,
using ingredients donated by local businesses and individuals. The meals are
then packaged and delivered to earthquake victims and first responders in the
affected regions.
Erdem says that he and his team have been working around the
clock to provide food for those in need. "It's our duty as chefs and as
citizens of Gaziantep to help those who are suffering," he said. "We
know that food can bring comfort and hope in difficult times, and we want to do
our part to support our fellow Turks."
Other chefs in the city have also been lending their skills
to the cause. Chef Fatih Sen has been making soups and stews to distribute to
those affected by the earthquakes, while Chef Hamza Ozpinar has been making
sandwiches and pastries. The effort has been welcomed by those on the receiving
end, who have expressed their gratitude for the chefs' generosity and kindness.
The earthquake relief effort in Gaziantep is a testament to
the city's resilience and the spirit of solidarity among its residents. While
the earthquakes have caused immense suffering and loss, the response of the
city's chefs and volunteers shows that even in the darkest of times, there is
still hope and humanity.
