Chef John Howie, whose restaurants – Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar, and John Howie Steak – are among Bellevue’s best, recently received the first Washington state Hunger Warrior Award at the 22nd annual Lawyers Helping Hungry Children luncheon at the Grand Hyatt in Seattle.

Howie was recognized for his ongoing efforts to end hunger. Since 2002, Howie has raised more than $4.5 million through charitable donations, time, products and gift certificates.

The Hunger Warrior Award was given by Lawyers Helping Hungry Children, a Washington state nonprofit organization dedicated to ending hunger in the local community and around the world. The organization includes lawyers, community leaders and fellow hunger advocates. Howie was the keynote speaker for the event and was then surprised by being presented with the Hunger Warrior Award.

Howie has always vowed to never say no to charitable giving, each year providing goods and services to more than 750 nonprofits.