Several Nelson eateries are set to take part in the Nelson Community Food Centre’s annual Restaurants for Change event on October 16.
This will be the sixth year the food centre hosts the campaign, with participating restaurants donating 100 per cent of dinner food sales to the organization.
This year, 17 local restaurants are taking part. Andrew Creighton, Development Director of the Nelson Community Food Centre, says that in addition to raising funds, the event aims to spark conversations about food security.
“It’s generally a really fun night where people are hopefully talking a little bit about food security while enjoying a good meal and making a donation to a great organization.”
Like many community food banks, the Nelson Community Food Centre has faced financial challenges due to inflation and high food prices. Creighton feels blessed by the support the organization receives from the community, which ensures it can offer its many food programs.
“We’re still raising funds actively. We’re being economical with what we’re spending and conscious of the funding we receive. I think that will always be a part of our organization as a nonprofit, but we’re stable now, and we’re looking forward to kicking off new programs and hosting fun events like Restaurants for Change.”
The organization hopes to raise around $20,000 to $25,000 through the event, which is similar to what they achieved in past years. However, Creighton reiterates that the event is less about money and more about raising awareness of food insecurity and the programs offered at the food centre.
“Money is kind of a secondary thing. I think if people are acknowledging that they’re supporting a good organization while enjoying a meal, that’s what is of great value to me. We do expect to raise a good amount of funds, and that’s great, but it’s really about having a nice meal out in our little town as well.”
Restaurants for Change returns to the city on October 16, with the following 17 restaurants participating: Sage Tapas & Wine Bar, Finley’s Bar & Grill, Marzano, the Library Lounge, General Store, Yum the Sun, Broken Hill, Kootenay Temple Kitchen, Cantina del Centro, the Tandoori Grill, Red Light Ramen, El Taco, Ashman’s Smash Burger, Beauty’s, Kurama Sushi, Louie’s Steakhouse, and the Main Street Diner.
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