RECOGNIZING REFETTORIO HARLEM IN NEW YORK CITY

On 2026-02-24, Representative James P. McGovern (D-MA-2) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING REFETTORIO HARLEM IN NEW YORK CITY" in the House.

RECOGNIZING REFETTORIO HARLEM IN NEW YORK CITY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [House] [Page H2269] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING REFETTORIO HARLEM IN NEW YORK CITY (Mr. McGOVERN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. McGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I recently had the pleasure of visiting Refettorio Harlem, an incredible nonprofit restaurant and food pantry in New York City. Refettorio Harlem is housed in the historic Emanuel AME Church and is run by Free Food Harlem. With incredible partners like Food for Soul, 2 nights a week, chefs transform perfectly good but unused food into multicourse fine dining dishes, served free of charge to anyone in need. On Wednesday and Friday evenings, Refettorio is bustling with community and conversation as neighbors come together for a shared meal and a welcoming space. During my visit, I tasted a delicious bowl of zero waste ramen with glazed chicken and bok choy, perfect for a cold winter day. Mr. Speaker, I thank Jill, Matt, and Bob, and everyone at Refettorio for taking a few minutes during meal prep to show me around. Refettorio Harlem is a spectacular example of what is possible when dedicated, like-minded people come together to not only fight hunger but also combat food waste. We need to uplift more innovative models like Refettorio Harlem to end hunger now. ____________________