Joan D' Alessandro
In 2010, shortly after the tragic death of her 16 year-old step-son, Christopher, Joan D’Alessandro decided to work through her grief by stepping outside of herself and helping others. A professional hair dresser, by day, Joan found herself at Children’s Hospital’s (Pittsburgh, PA) monthly “Coffee House” where parents and caregivers have a chance to relax, socialize and get a manicure or massage. While spending time with the families at the hospital, Joan became immersed in their situations and stories. She realized that many of these families did not have the ability to feed themselves or their other children while they were at the hospital. What she saw and heard broke her heart. But, it also instilled in her the desire and motivation to do something. And Christopher’s Kitchen was born.
