Chef Gary and Ann LeBlanc founded Mercy Chefs in 2006 after the devastation and massive impact that Hurricane Katrina left on Gary’s hometown of New Orleans. Gary, being a Louisiana native, felt compelled for the first time in his life to volunteer. At the time, he was broken by what he witnessed in his hometown of New Orleans during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The devastation was so intense and widespread. Lives were completely disrupted, and the community was in ruins. 

After Katrina, he saw first-hand the incredible difference a hot meal could make, but after 35 years in the hospitality industry, Gary was surprised and outraged by the quality of food being served.