For families and individuals navigating financial strain, the simple act of preparing and eating a meal can feel like an insurmountable obstacle. Such food-insecure realities, often hidden yet rampant in high-cost areas like Orange County, is the motivation behind a new initiative at Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach .

Andrew Gruel, the chef and co-owner, along with his wife and co-owner, Lauren, recently launched “ Sharing the Table ” on Monday, Sept. 29. The program offers free, quality dinners to people and families facing hunger.

“We talk a lot about the need to eat healthier,” said Gruel in an interview, “and one of the biggest pushbacks is how expensive it is. It’s really tough financially right now, especially in California, for families.” Hungry? Sign up for The Eat Index

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