Restaurants throughout the country haven’t let their own struggles dampen charitable spirits this month, as more than 20 of the country’s top restaurants participate in DineAid.
Throughout December, participating restaurants are giving customers the opportunity to help raise money for City Missions nationwide by either adding a voluntary donation to their bill, or by creating a DineAid special on the menu, – with $2 from every dish going to the cause.
This year’s principle sponsor Wall Real Estate’s guarantees one hundred percent of the money raised goes towards food banks in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and the South Island regions.
This year, DineAid has newcomers such as Burger Burger, Lilian, and Williams Eatery joining the cause. Co-owner oif Williams Eatery, Charles Williams, says they decided to get involved this year as they wanted to contribute to their community.
“To be able to give back to those in need by doing something we love is pretty cool. DineAid provides that platform and we feel really lucky and proud to be part of it.” Lumo have kindly sponsored digital billboards nationwide to showcase the restaurants taking part.
Chris Farrelly, Auckland City Missioner, says he is incredibly grateful for the support of those in hospitality, particularly the restaurants who support the mission’s work through DineAid.
“After such an incredibly tough year for the hospitality industry, I hope that DineAid encourages diners to enjoy a meal at the participating restaurants and helps bring people through the doors. That would be a lovely win-win in such a difficult time for many.”
He says it illustrates the full circle of care in our community, and while DineAid is always essential, it feels more important than ever this year.
“In a year where so many people have been negatively impacted by COVID-19, the Mission has seen the demand for food parcels double and we can only meet that need with the support of kind and generous people in our community.”
“I hope each diner sees a small addition to their bill at the end of a superb meal as an act of kindness that will help the Mission make a world of difference to those in our city who most need support.”
Long-time supporters of DineAid, Nourish Group always make a big impact with venues such as Euro, Jervois Steak House, Andiamo, Shed 5 and The Crab Shack all taking part.
Operations manager, Kieran Turnbull, says they continue to support each year as it’s a great way for their restaurants and customers to help those less fortunate. “It has been a tough year for the industry but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have a sense of giving. We are all living someone else’s dream and we are still pretty fortunate. Charity in this form is still possible from us, and still really valuable.”
For a full list of this year’s participating venues please visit http://www.dineaid.org.nz/
