World Central Kitchen has launched a rapid food‑relief operation across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, working with local volunteers, restaurant partners, and municipal leaders to reach communities still without power and water.
Chika Kondo, WCK’s community outreach manager, said meal service began even before staff arrived.
“We work with communities to feed communities… Our whole goal is to be first on the front lines,” she said. “We had boots on the ground from Thursday… We’re on all three islands responding to the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku.”
WCK is partnering with teachers in Rota, disability‑rights group Team Koka in Tinian, and volunteer networks across Saipan. More than 30 restaurant partners are preparing hot meals and sandwiches daily. On Wednesday alone, Kondo said, More than 10,000 meals were distributed.
Water access remains one of the most urgent challenges, especially in Kagman, and WCK is coordinating closely with the Red Cross, Team Rubicon, and the CNMI Emergency Operations Center to reach vulnerable residents.
“Many people have now gone over a week without power and without water,” Kondo said. “We’re hoping that a hot meal can bring a little bit of warmth, but also some hope to know they’re not forgotten.”
WCK continues to operate multiple distribution sites across the three islands. Those interested in helping may register through the organization’s volunteer portal at volunteers.wck.org.
World Central Kitchen is an international emergency food‑relief organization founded by chef José Andrés. The group specializes in getting fresh, hot meals to communities immediately after disasters — hurricanes, typhoons, earthquakes, conflicts and other crises. The model is fast, local, and community‑driven: World Central Kitchen partners with local restaurants, volunteers, and organizations to produce and deliver meals where they’re needed most.
