Vancouver's food and beverage community launches relief fund

Barista in a coffee shop (Shutterstock)

At midnight last night, all Vancouver’s dining establishments were ordered to close their dining rooms in order to flatten the curve during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is what’s best for the community’s health, but there’s no denying that in recent weeks, business owners have been enduring some painful repercussions such as laying people off or letting employees go altogether.

Now, a group of Vancouver’s hospitality leaders have come together to create a relief fund for the city’s struggling food and beverage industry.

The Vancouver Food and Beverage Community Relief Fund (VFBC Relief Fund) aims to help those who are in critical need of short-term financial assistance in the industry.

“There are so many incredible people in our industry; so many creative and talented individuals who help shape Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island’s food and beverage scene,” said Dallah (full name Abdallah El Chami), chef and partner of Superbaba.

“And now, so many of them are out of work and face a dire situation. Even with Employment Insurance, a large population is living near or under the poverty line, making it difficult to purchase basic essentials. This is our call for help so that we can help them a little bit to get by right now.”

VFBC Relief Fund is now calling for donations. Everything that’s raised will be distributed to food and beverage workers who have been impacted by the pandemic and need urgent relief.

Folks applying to receive relief funds will get $25 to $150 for the essentials. This means groceries, prescriptions, rent, and paying basic bills.

Currently, the newly formed organization is coordinated by Dallah, Tacofino’s Head of Finance Puneet Kochar, and Tacofino’s Head of People and Engagement Taylor Chobotiuk.

To donate or apply, head to the relief’s website.