PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) -- Mercy Chefs is on the ground in Southern California distributing meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders in wake of the devastating wildfires. "Our team has mobilized quickly to serve hot, chef-prepared meals to affected communities,” said Nick Beckman, director of logistics for Mercy Chefs. “We are grateful for the opportunity to feed body and soul during this incredibly challenging time. We stand alongside those who are rebuilding their lives in the wake of these fires." Additionally, Mercy Chefs continues to serve meals in western North Carolina in response to Hurricane Helene. The Portsmouth-based non-profit has served over 28 million meals since its founding in 2006 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.