Former Presidential Chef Uses Lottery Win To Feed The Homeless
January 30, 2019
A renowned chef who's cooked for many presidents is using his $250,000 lottery prize to feed the homeless.
Roberto Mendoza / North Carolina Education Lottery
Roberto Mendoza has been the chef for President Trump, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, George Bush and international royalty.
But his life wasn't always so rewarding.
Growing up in El Salvador during the war in the 80s, Mendoza said food wasn't easy to come by. He was even kidnapped for two months.
The Salvation Army found him and sent him to Canada for safety. From Canada, he went to California.
"I know what it's like to be hungry," he said. "I told myself when I was a teen that, if I'm ever in a position to give back, I'd do everything I can to make sure no one else has to go hungry.
Today, Mendoza cooks for the homeless in Charlotte, North Carolina, every Saturday.
"What is in my heart, is cooking for the homeless," Mendoza told TODAY.
With his lottery winnings, he plans to build a cafeteria for a small village in the Dominican Republic, which he visits frequently.
"This last December, I bring toys, clothes, shoes and cook for the little ones. This is a very poor village where sometimes they eat and sometimes they don't," he said.
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
A Husky Was Lost. Owners Found Him With A Drone - Hanging Out With Bears
NBA Player Invites Old High School Coach To Live With Him After His Wife Passes
Friendly Donkey Serves As A Guide For A Blind Horse
A First Birthday Reunion Party For The Whole Litter, Mama Pup Included
Cat's Face Shows Opposite Of Gratitude After Being Rescued
This Senior Dog Sanctuary Celebrated 12 Years With A Dog Prom
A Husky Was Lost. Owners Found Him With A Drone - Hanging Out With Bears
'It Was A Magical Romance Moment From The Movies': Two Swans Reunite After Rehab
Can't Stop Laughing: Woman Screams, Runs From Angry Honking Geese
Mom With Cancer Shows Off Her New Wig, Husband's Reaction Has Everyone Laughing
Stuff Mothers Say: Magician Sings Song About All The Sayings We Never Forget