José Andrés Says Jennifer Garner Jumped Right in to Volunteer for L.A. Fires: ‘I Didn’t Have to Tell Her What to Do’

José Andrés swiftly mobilized relief efforts in response to the Los Angeles wildfires.

His organization, World Central Kitchen, which provides meals during crises, was actively serving communities in California on Jan. 10. Jennifer Garner joined him, helping distribute meals to first responders and affected families.

“She had recently lost a friend, yet she was there like anyone else,” Andrés, 55, mentioned during an event at the Cayman Cookout hosted at The Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman.

“It felt like we’d known each other forever—even though we had just met. She instinctively found ways to contribute without needing guidance,” he shared.

Garner, 52, was seen offering comfort while distributing meals. “That emotional connection is profoundly meaningful in ways many might not realize,” Andrés noted.

“Everyone who contributed, even if only briefly, is remarkable because they didn’t have to. Some were impacted by the fires themselves but still stepped up to help,” Andrés said.

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As of Jan. 17, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed 27 fatalities due to the wildfires, which ignited on Jan. 7, displacing thousands of residents.

World Central Kitchen has offered aid worldwide, including relief efforts in Gaza and Ukraine. Following the L.A. fires, Garner stated she utilized her platform to support WCK’s mission.

“I felt compelled to do something, so I contacted Chef Andrés and asked if I could get involved,” Garner told NBC News.

Garner also expressed her sorrow over losing a friend in the fires, reflecting the broader grief felt within her community.