HOLMES BEACH, Florida. – Serving those who have served us is the goal of the Guy Fieri Foundation. The famous chef launched into Holmes Beach Wednesday with an army of leaders to support local first responders.

“As we watch the cleanup unfold, everyone coming and going, we need to stop for a second and recognize those first responders who did all of this hard work and thank them so much,” Fieri told FOX 13.

The army of chefs, family and friends included Big Lee’s BBQ of Ocala, Chef Richard Hales and Rocco Mangel of Rocco’s Tacos. They prepared and packed lunch to thank Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island first responders for their work during the back-to-back hurricanes.

READ: Ashlee’s Toy Closet donates toys to children affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton

“We have all these different bosses who have said we want to help,” Fieri said. “Today, come pay your respects to the first responders, treat them to a nice lunch, say hello to everyone and remind everyone that it takes the entire community to fight this situation.”

The Guy Fieri Foundation has served more than 120,000 relief meals during natural disasters. Fieri’s passion is honoring first responders, veterans and active military personnel who risk everything for others.

He witnessed their sacrifices during the Northern California wildfires. He brought a second relief caravan that was just built in Georgia to help Southern states.

“It means a lot because it just shows that there are people who are doing the work that first responders do here who have to be away from their families and have to leave their homes to protect the community that they serve.”, said Holmes Beach Police Chief William Tokajer.

MORE: Bradenton Beach waterfront restaurant reopens 6 weeks after hurricanes: ‘Many hands make the job easier’

Working with Manatee Search and Rescue, Holmes Beach officers responded to floodwaters during Hurricane Helene. They helped bring families to safety and have worked since then to help the area recover.

“I have lived here for 15 years and have never seen the destruction that has occurred. The first responders came, took matters into their own hands and started rebuilding in time. We will get back to normal,” said Mike Pescitelli. a local resident.

Fieri hopes his gesture of thanks will spread to every person who passes.

“I hope people realize they don’t think these people are invincible,” Fieri said. “They need thanks, they need love, they need support and recognition and that’s what it’s all about.”

To learn more about the Guy Fieri Foundation, Click here. Fieri and Rocco Mangel will also host a benefit on November 18 at Rocco’s Tacos, Boca Raton, to benefit the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Disaster Relief Fund, which supports the hospitality industry following Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

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