Chef lost everything in a fire except a gift from Pope Francis — which inspired him to feed 5,000 kids daily

Bruno Serato, a celebrity chef and immigrant from Italy, had already built a reputation for generosity when he was recognized as a CNN Hero in 2011. But it was a personal gift from Pope Francis, a silver crucifix, that transformed his charity work into a lifelong calling. In 2017, Serato’s upscale Anaheim White House restaurant burned to the ground. When firefighters sifted through the charred remains, they found almost nothing, except the crucifix. “I was like, ‘No way!’ This is a sign, a sign of God for sure, no doubt about it,” Serato said in a segment on CBS Evening News.

At the time of the fire, Serato was already feeding children at the local Boys and Girls Club using the proceeds from his upscale restaurant, which served the rich and famous by night. “Are you hungry?” he would ask them, treating the kids to a fine dining experience every single night. Over time, that work expanded, and his nonprofit, Caterina’s Club, now serves free pasta dinners to over 5,000 children daily across Orange and Los Angeles counties. It also offers job training and permanent housing support for families in need. Every meal served at his restaurant helps fund meals for those who can’t afford one. According to the USDA, nearly 14 million children in the United States faced hunger in 2023, equating to approximately one in five children. 

Despite losing nearly everything in the fire, Serato refused to stop; he rebuilt the business and redoubled his charitable mission. “Here I am, opening up and doing more than I’ve ever done before in my entire life,” he said. He’s met Pope Francis four times, and on the last occasion, the pontiff reviewed a photo book of Serato’s work and said, “Bravo. Bravo. Continua cosi,” which means, “Continue like this.” Serato took it as both encouragement and obligation. “Yeah, I have to keep doing what I’m doing. If I don’t, he comes down,” he said, only half-joking. The legacy of any leader is not just what they do, but who they inspire. For Serato, that inspiration lives on through every plate of pasta he gives away. In October, Caterina’s Club will celebrate its 20th anniversary.

The mission that began with one restaurant kitchen and a few children has since grown into a nationwide symbol of what one person, one meal, and one message can achieve. The CBS News segment was later shared on Instagram, garnering 571,000 views and over 58,000 likes. Viewers flooded the post with praise, celebrating both Bruno’s humility and the late Pope’s influence. @amaranthinee4 said, “This is the type of legacy that Pope Francis left behind. Now this man is an inspiration for many and a hope for others. BEAUTIFUL.” @bluewaterforever commented, “Bruno has done the right things to do, and his life has been blessed. Amen.”

@suzanne5066 added, “Such a wonderful thing to see, his compassion towards the needy, particularly the children. His mentor and guide was Pope Francis. He was an extraordinary human being. His wisdom and love will forever live on throughout the world. RIP, dear Pope Francis, love Suzanne.” @lionslaw8955 wrote, “Fantastic story to share. If the world had more Brunos, it would be an incredible place for us all. Viva Bruno Grazie!!”

You can follow CBS Evening News (@cbseveningnews) on Instagram for more uplifting news.