Giving Kitchen Honors Food Service Workers on National Day

ATLANTA, Sept. 23, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- On National Food Service Worker Day, September 25, Giving Kitchen is celebrating the 15.7 million individuals who keep the food service industry running. These workers, who form the backbone of the second-largest industry in the country, often face significant challenges, including financial hardship, food insecurity, and mental health struggles. According to research, nearly 40% of food and beverage workers report feeling isolated at work, and the industry experiences elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting food service workers, is using this day to highlight the realities faced by those who feed us. The organization is also marking Hunger Action Month by drawing attention to the high rate of food insecurity among restaurant workers. Research indicates that three out of five restaurant workers experience food insecurity, and over 70% of Giving Kitchen's clients say financial assistance prevented them from skipping meals to save money.

Dr. Allison Padilla-Goodman, CEO of Giving Kitchen, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of food service workers.

To support food service workers, Giving Kitchen has launched the Stability Network, a national initiative that connects workers and employers with resources to build stronger, supportive workplaces. The network offers mental health support, crisis resources, and community connection directly into the workplace.

One key component of the Stability Network is QPR suicide prevention training, which Giving Kitchen has provided to almost 2,000 food service workers nationwide. After the training, 94% of participants reported feeling confident in their ability to help someone who may be suicidal, and one in four knew someone who needed help and intended to reach out. QPR training is free to food service workers and operators nationwide and takes approximately one hour. Participants can use the code GKQPR at qprtraining.com to access the training.

Since its founding in 2013, Giving Kitchen has supported more than 40,000 food service workers in crisis, providing financial assistance and community resources for challenges including illness, injury, housing disasters, and the death of a loved one.

To get involved, Giving Kitchen is asking everyone to thank a food service worker on September 25. Visit foodserviceworkerday.com for the campaign filter, post a photo or video on Instagram or LinkedIn, tag @GivingKitchen, and use #FSWDay. Food service workers experiencing a crisis can ask Giving Kitchen for help at givingkitchen.org/help. Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.