This is the story of Anthony Bourdain and Jason Wang, the CEO of Xi’an Famous Foods. The mini-chain that sells Chinese food in the US recently donated more than $73, 000 to America’s National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in memory of the culinary superstar and all that he did for Jason and his family.
You see, the pair met back in 2007 when Bourdain stopped by Jason’s family business in Flushing, Queens, to film an episode of “No Reservations”. Bourdain mentioned how much he enjoyed the food and Jason believes that one statement, broadcast to millions, changed his family’s life forever – Xi’an Famous Foods now has 12 locations throughout New York City.
“While he may have no idea what he has done for our family and business by simply saying he enjoyed the food, I wanted him to know it helped bring our family out from living in one room in Flushing to living the American dream,” Jason writes in an Instagram post. “We were able to grow our business and provide great food for our guests, and opportunities for our employees.”
To honour the late TV personality, Jason announced that all profits from food sales on June 8 – the date of Bourdain’s death, would be donated to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – a call centre that provides free support to people in crisis.
Jason ends his heartfelt social media post with this message: “Please cherish all of our lives and help those who may be struggling. Rest in peace, Tony, and the most sincere condolences to Tony’s beloved family.”
If you or anyone you know may be struggling, you can contact the US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 1-800-273-TALK and for those in Australia, please contact LIFELINE on 13 11 14.
